Document Type

Article - On Campus Only

Publication Date

1994

Abstract

This essay is an attempt to sketch a preliminary map of the emerging dialogue between spirituality and the contemporary literature of nature. This includes: (1) a consideration of their distinctive approaches to the mapping of the sacred landscape; (2) an exploration of some of the ambiguities and tensions within the literature of nature toward matters of religion; (3) an outline of recent developments within the discipline of spirituality that enable scholars in that field to respond more thoughtfully to questions raised by nature writers; (4) a description of the genres found in the burgeoning literature of nature writing and the themes that make it a useful resource and conversation partner for spirituality; (5) an evaluation of three prominent themes of contemporary nature writing—relationship, mystery, and moral responsibility—of particular importance for developing a contemporary spirituality of nature.

Original Publication Citation

Burton-Christie, D. (1994). Mapping the Sacred Landscape: Spirituality and the Contemporary Literature of Nature. Horizons, 21(1), 22-47. doi:10.1017/S0360966900027912

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