Robert Hugh Benson

In "None Other Gods," Robert Hugh Benson crafts a compelling narrative that weaves together themes of faith, temptation, and the multifaceted nature of personal belief. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the story delves into the psychological struggles of its characters as they grapple with the contradictions of modernity and spiritual truths. Bensons literary style combines rich, evocative prose with a deep philosophical inquiry, reflecting the moral dilemmas of a world increasingly skeptical of traditional dogma, thereby situating the novel within the context of a post-Victorian literary landscape that is ripe for questioning established norms. Benson, a convert to Catholicism and a member of the English clergy, infuses his narrative with insights drawn from his own spiritual journey and the cultural upheaval of his time. His background and clear engagement with theological discourse lend authenticity and depth to the characters conflicts. Benson was acutely aware of the challenges to faith in the face of rising secularism, and his experiences undoubtedly shaped the nuanced portrayals and poignant dilemmas presented in this novel. "None Other Gods" is recommended for readers seeking a profound exploration of faith amidst existential crisis. Its rich character development and thoughtful reflections on spirituality challenge readers to confront their own beliefs in a complex world. This work invites both literary and theological examination, making it essential for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith and modernity.

Il libro che piace a papa Francesco Il padrone del mondo e un libro distopico abbastanza particolare: narra di come sarebbe il mondo e la societa se venisse a mancare la Chiesa Cattolica, se la religione fosse estinta sulla faccia della terra. Quando B. lo scrive, nel 1907, ha da poco compiuto 36 anni e da tre e diventato sacerdote cattolico dopo una lunga e sofferta conversione dallanglicanesimo. La scomparsa della chiesa e stata resa possibile dallinarrestabile ascesa al potere di Julian Felsemburgh, visto dallautore come il cattivo, addirittura lAnticristo senza pero avere le caratteristiche perverse del male politico: non urla mai, non manifesta aggressivita, non inveisce contro nessuno ne si avventura in proclami roboanti. Al contrario si presenta come uomo del dialogo, in grado di tenere sotto controllo la propria emotivita, mostrandosi in grado di un governo illuminato. In questo contesto la carita cristiana e sostituita dalla filantropia e al posto della fede si fa strada cio che tutti chiamano lumanitarismo. Solo il protagonista riesce ad avere una visione libera, vedendo il falso profeto nascosto dietro alla bonta e alla pace manifestata da Julian. Ma la lotta e dura e lesito dello scontro lo si avra al termine del romanzo. Testo distopico, scritto prima dello scoppio delle due guerre mondiali, prima della rivoluzione sovietica, prima dellavvento del nazismo, ma che descrive con lucidita e chiarezza cio che e avvenuto nel 900 e ancora sta avvenendo. Un testo che ha raccolto linteresse di papa Francesco che ci ha letto i rischi ideologici di chi, per sete di potere, si propone di cancellare le peculiarita dei singoli popoli abbattendone le differenze, cercando di imporre un pensiero unico allinterno di una strategia che ha come obiettivo lannullamento della chiesa cattolica. Una lettura utile anche negli anni 2000, a piu di 100 anni dalla sua prima uscita.

In "The Coward," Robert Hugh Benson intricately explores the themes of courage and moral conflict through the lens of a protagonist who grapples with societal expectations and personal fears. The narrative unfolds with a poignant psychological depth, marked by Bensons adept use of introspective dialogue and vivid imagery. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century societal norms, the novel critically examines the dichotomy between public persona and private truth, challenging the very essence of what it means to be brave. Robert Hugh Benson, a notable figure of the early 1900s, was deeply influenced by his Anglican upbringing and later conversion to Roman Catholicism, experiences that often permeated his literary works. His background as a priest and his interactions with contemporaneous social issues inform the moral dilemmas faced by his characters. Bensons keen perception of human frailty is evident, rendering "The Coward" both a personal and a universal narrative that reflects the complexities of faith and identity. I highly recommend "The Coward" for readers seeking a profound exploration of fear and integrity. Bensons compelling storytelling and masterful character development invite readers to reflect on their own values, making this novel an essential read for those interested in moral philosophy and the human condition.

In "The Light Invisible," Robert Hugh Benson masterfully intertwines themes of faith, spirituality, and the quest for divine presence within the everyday struggles of life. The novel, written in 1903, employs a lyrical and contemplative literary style, drawing on rich symbolism to explore the transformative power of belief. Set against the backdrop of a post-Victorian society grappling with materialism and disillusionment, Bensons vivid prose invites readers to ponder the invisible yet palpable essence of grace that permeates human experience, ultimately suggesting that true illumination lies in the capacity to perceive the divine in both the mundane and profound. Robert Hugh Benson, a former Anglican priest who converted to Catholicism, was deeply influenced by his religious background and the spiritual landscape of his time. As a member of a prominent English literary family, he was privy to the intellectual currents shaping early 20th-century thought. His experiences as a writer and clergyman informed his explorations of faith, setting the stage for the profound inquiries presented in this novel, which reflects his passion for unlocking the spiritual dimensions of existence. "The Light Invisible" is a compelling read for those interested in the intersections of literature and spirituality. Bensons adept storytelling not only engages the imagination but also serves as an invitation to reflect upon the unseen forces that shape our lives. This book is essential for anyone seeking deeper insights into the complexities of faith and the light that can be found in the shadows.

In "The Dawn of All," Robert Hugh Benson crafts a profound narrative that intertwines elements of science fiction and theological speculation. Set in a dystopian future where humanity is facing the repercussions of a world devoid of faith, Benson explores the moral and spiritual dilemmas that arise from a society guided only by materialism. His literary style combines vivid imagery with introspective dialogue, invoking the traditions of both speculative fiction and moral philosophy. The novel is steeped in the context of early 20th-century anxieties regarding secularism and a loss of spiritual direction, reflecting the authors concerns about the world in which he lived. Robert Hugh Benson was a former Anglican priest who converted to Catholicism, a shift that profoundly informed his writing and worldview. His experiences in the clergy, alongside his familiarity with religious themes, emboldened him to critique contemporary societys drift from spiritual values. Writing in the wake of the First World War, Benson sought to engage readers in a conversation about faith, redemption, and humanitys ultimate purpose within a challenging modern landscape. Readers seeking a thought-provoking exploration of faiths role in a secularized world will find "The Dawn of All" to be an enriching and enlightening read. Bensons unique blend of narrative depth and ethical inquiry invites reflection on the moral choices that define humanitys future, making it a timeless work that resonates with both spiritual seekers and literary enthusiasts alike.

This book, written in 1907, is Bensons dystopic vision of a near future world in which religion has, by and large, been rejected or simply fallen by the wayside. The Catholic Church has retreated to Italy and Ireland, while the majority of the rest of the world is either Humanistic or Pantheistic. There is a one world government, and euthanasia is widely available. The plot follows the tale of a priest, Percy Franklin, who becomes Pope Silvester III, and a mysterious man named Julian Felsenburgh, who is identical in looks to the priest and who becomes "Lord of the World".

If you want to understand me, says Pope Francis, read this book.Speaking to a planeload of reporters on his way home from a visit to the Philippines in January 2015, the Pope explained that a reading of Lord Of The World would help people understand his fears for a secular society, including the promotion of contraception and gay marriage, a phenomenon he had described as ideological colonisation in Manila.First published in 1907 as a response to the utopian, atheistic vision of British author H.G.Wells, Lord Of The World was written by Robert Hugh Benson, an Etonian author who also specialised in ghost stories. Set in the 21st century, Lord Of The World sees socialists, humanists and Freemasons taking over a society where euthanasia is obligatory for the ill, Esperanto is the common language, and everyone travels by volor, a form of Zeppelin. Religion has been suppressed. The antichrist returns, becoming the president of the world before going to war with the Catholic Church, precipitating the end of the world.Benson, formerly an Anglican priest, wrote his dark vision of the future, often cited as one of the first modern dystopias, after converting to Catholicism in 1904 and becoming a Catholic priest.The youngest son of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Benson hailed from literary stock. One brother, Edward Frederic Benson, wrote the Mapp and Lucia comic novels, while another, Arthur Christopher Benson, wrote the words for Land of Hope and Glory, and also Hugh Memoirs of a Brother, the biography that comes free with this profusely illustrated www.ApostropeBooks.com edition.

La amistad de Cristo es un libro religioso en el mejor sentido del término. Está orientado a nutrir, ampliar, enriquecer y profundizar la fe personal. No trata, ni lo intenta, de convertir a los desc

Luces misteriosas. Visiones espectrales. Mesas que se mueven y escrituras de manos invisibles. Y, sobre todo, la posibilidad de establecer contacto con esos seres queridos que han cruzado ya los umbrales de la muerte El atractivo del espiritismo es, aparentemente, indudable, y como teoria cuenta no solo con explicaciones sino con el añadido de un misterio que parece mezclar del modo mas seductor la realidad humana y la vida de ultratumba. En Los Espiritistas, Robert Hugh Benson, una de las personalidades catolicas inglesas mas estimulantes de los siglos xix y xx, narra la historia de dos jovenes, Laurie Baxter y Maggie Deronnais, que llegan a arriesgar su vida por saber de las verdades y los riesgos, de los alicientes y peligros que oculta el espiritismo. Es una novela de busqueda y tentacion, de mirar o no mirar al otro lado, una meditacion sobre los caminos menos transitados de la fe y tambien una hermosisima lectura acerca del amor que triunfa sobre las tribulaciones no por invisibles menos palpables.

First published in 1907, Robert Hugh Bensons "Lord of the World" is an early Dystopian novel about the reign of the Anti-Christ and end of the World. After its publication, Priest Benson received hate mail and traitorous accusations by his former Anglican colleagues (he left the Church of England and converted to the Roman Catholic Church a decade earlier.) This religious controversy heightened interest in the novel and speculation about the future of spiritual doctrine."Lord of the World" is a dystopic vision of a near future world in which religion has, by and large, been rejected or simply fallen by the wayside. The Catholic Church has retreated to Italy and Ireland, while the majority of the rest of the world is either Humanistic or Pantheistic. There is a one world government, and euthanasia is widely available. The plot follows the tale of a priest, Percy Franklin, who becomes Pope Silvester III, and a mysterious man named Julian Felsenburgh, who is identical in looks to the priest and who becomes "Lord of the World"...

Robert Hugh Bensons Lord of the World is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that explores the clash between secularism and religion in a futuristic world. Set in the 21st century, the novel depicts a world where atheistic humanism is the dominant ideology, leading to a society devoid of spiritual values and consumed by materialism. Bensons writing style is characterized by vivid imagery and a sense of urgency, drawing readers into a world that feels eerily familiar yet unsettlingly different. The novels exploration of existential questions and the consequences of a godless society make it a compelling read for those interested in speculative fiction. Benson skillfully weaves together elements of science fiction and political commentary to create a work that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Cuando monseñor Masterman se despertó de su amnesia en Hyde Park no podía creer lo que veían sus ojos. Una gran multitud de personas, entre ellas un buen número de clérigos católicos en traje de gala, escuchaban atentamente la predicacion de un franciscano. Al parecer se encontraba en 1973, pero sus ultimos restos de memoria eran de inicios de la decada de 1910. Recordaba que en aquel tiempo la Iglesia Catolica se habia visto sacudida por fuertes temporales como el modernismo, el cientifismo o el evolucionismo. Todo auguraba un desastre para la Iglesia Catolica en las decadas posteriores. Pero el mundo, predicaba el fraile, habia cambiado drasticamente. Londres, Inglaterra, Europa e incluso el mundo entero se habian convertido al catolicismo. En su mente, monseñor Masterman se preguntaba como era posible aquello. ¿Que habia ocurrido en aquellos años, de los que al parecer no recordaba nada, para que se hubiera llegado a aquella situacion? En la trama de esta novela futurista, publicada por primera vez en 1911, se mezclan los argumentos y las utopias, la resistencia politica y el destierro, ideas innovadoras y dramatica ortodoxia, un Papa majestuoso y curas renegados. En Alba Triunfante, Robert Hugh Benson quiere dar las claves del futuro del catolicismo, de una sociedad catolica y de una ciencia que, lejos del materialismo, ha sabido llegar a su mas alto nivel. En Alba Triunfante, religion, ciencia y politica son hermanas que rigen las vidas humanas desde el mismo trono.

A Mystery Play in Honour of the Nativity of our Lord is a dramatic work about the miracle of Christmas, with the goal of furthering the devotion to the Nativity of the Christ. The play is written in verse and it celebrates the birth of the Lord, telling of the miracle of the Nativity and revealing the Christmas mystery.

In "Oddsfish!", Robert Hugh Benson crafts a whimsical yet profound narrative set in the realm of Elizabethan England. The novel intertwines fantasy with biting social commentary, exploring themes of faith, loyalty, and the nature of humanity through richly drawn characters and vivid descriptions. Bensons literary style blends humor with poignant observations, echoing works of contemporaneous writers while also establishing a unique voice that navigates the absurdities of life amid historical grievances. The allegorical elements and playful dialogue invite readers to contemplate deeper existential questions within the framework of a delightful adventure. Robert Hugh Benson, the son of Edward White Benson, the Archbishop of Canterbury, was deeply influenced by his ecclesiastical upbringing and a fervent interest in the occult. A prolific writer, Benson found himself at the intersection of faith and fantasy, which is evident in his works. His conversion to Roman Catholicism also shaped his thematic explorations of morality and spirituality, lending a rich layer of complexity to the characters in "Oddsfish!" and their existential dilemmas. This enchanting novel is highly recommended for readers interested in a charming yet thoughtful reflection on human nature wrapped in a tapestry of historical fiction. Bensons masterful storytelling, combined with his keen understanding of the spiritual struggles that define humanity, makes "Oddsfish!" a compelling read for those seeking both entertainment and insight.

In "None Other Gods," Robert Hugh Benson crafts a compelling narrative that explores the spiritual struggles and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a post-Victorian society teetering between faith and skepticism. The novels literary style reflects the authors mastery of prose, combining rich character development with captivating dialogue and philosophical musings. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century England, Benson delves into the tension between traditional religious values and the rise of secularism, encouraging readers to confront the complexities of belief and doubt in their own lives. Robert Hugh Benson, an English author and priest of the Church of England, was acutely aware of the cultural shifts of his time. A convert to Roman Catholicism, Bensons own spiritual journey greatly informed his writing. His experiences within both the Anglican and Catholic traditions allowed him to navigate and articulate the internal conflicts surrounding faith, identity, and modernity. This duality resonates throughout the narrative, as characters grapple with their convictions against an ever-changing societal landscape. "None Other Gods" is highly recommended for those interested in theological discourse, psychological depth, and a portrait of a society undergoing profound transformation. BensonAos eloquent prose and insightful exploration of faith make this novel not just a story but a significant contribution to the literary discussions of religion and modernity. Readers will find themselves questioning the very nature of their beliefs and the societal pressures that shape them.

In "The Kings Achievement," Robert Hugh Benson crafts a richly layered narrative set in the tumultuous era of the English Reformation. The novel entwines historical events with the personal struggles of its protagonist, illustrating the tension between faith and duty. Bensons prose is both lyrical and evocative, employing a vivid style that mirrors the emotional and spiritual conflicts faced by individuals during a time of monumental change. The use of symbolism and deep character development enhances the readers understanding of the complexities of loyalty and belief in an increasingly fragmented society. Robert Hugh Benson, the son of a prominent Anglican bishop, was profoundly shaped by his Roman Catholic faith and his keen interest in historical contexts. His experiences as a priest and his reflections on the Reformation period provided both the backdrop and the impetus for this compelling work. As a member of the literary elite, Benson wished to address the spiritual crises of his time, making his exploration of faith and morality both personal and relevant, drawing readers into the emotional heart of his characters. Ideal for those intrigued by historical fiction interwoven with deep ethical and spiritual themes, "The Kings Achievement" invites readers to engage with its charactersAo dilemmas and broader societal questions. Bensons narrative serves as a reflective mirror of the struggles between personal conviction and external pressures, making it a timeless exploration of the human condition.

Robert Hugh Benson, who was educated at Eton College and Trinity College, Cambridge, was ordained an Anglican priest in 1895 by his father, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Eight years later, after weighty consideration, Robert Benson converted to Roman Catholicism. In 1904 he was ordained a Roman Catholic priest and took up residence in Cambridge, where he ministered to Roman Catholic students as their unofficial chaplain. In 1911, he was made a monsignor. Despite the brevity of his earthly life, Benson was a prolific writer whose literary productions span the gamut from devotional works, such as The Friendship of Christ, to sacred drama, childrens books, apologetic works, historical fiction, and even science fiction.The Friendship of Christ, which bears an imprimatur, is based on sermons Benson preached in London and Rome in 1910 and 1911. In the first part of this book, he shows how one enters into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through the purgative and illuminative ways. In the second part, he discusses several modes in which Christ offers us His friendship here and now, such as in the Eucharist, in the Church, in the priest, in the saint, in the sinner, in the average person, and in the sufferer. In Part III, Benson recalls how Jesus Christ proved the depth of His friendship with us by willingly accepting death on the cross for our sake, and how He raises His friends to everlasting life with Him. (Introduction by dave7)

Following the death of his fiancée, Laurie Baxter becomes consumed by an obsession with the supernatural. Attempting to reach his deceased bride, he attends rituals and séances, delving ever deeper into the dark embrace of the occult. But instead of reconnecting with his lost love, Laurie is brought into contact with forces far more sinister.

Two wealthy families are neighbors in Elizabethan England; one is staunchly Catholic and the other is devoutly Protestant. The attractive young scions of the families are drawn to each other in friendship and love, but are kept apart by their opposing religions. Life is very difficult for Catholics during those times. They are subject to fines, imprisonment, torture and ignominious death for practicing their faith. On the other hand, for various reasons some Catholics give up their inherited faith, and even betray and persecute their fellow-religionists. As the threads of plot are woven tighter, heroes emerge, sometimes most unexpectedly, as they grapple with theological doubts and conflicts, and undergo extreme suffering and loss. The many characters we meet ring true, whether they are brilliant or superstitious, stalwart or wavering, pious or violent; and it is a great privilege to spend time with such towering historical figures as St. Edmond Campion and Queen Elizabeth herself. Love, history, theology, suspense, and an array of colorful characters are sewn inexorably together in this large and compelling story. (Intro by Carol Pelster)