Description
In Revelation, Resistance, and Mormon Polygamy historian Merina Smith explores the introduction of polygamy in Nauvoo, a development that unfolded amid scandal and resistance. Smith considers the ideological, historical, and even psychological elements of the process and captures the emotional and cultural detail of this exciting and volatile period in Mormon history. She illuminates the mystery of early adherents’ acceptance of any such radical type of marriage in light of their dedication to the accepted monogamous marriage patterns of their day.
When Joseph Smith started to reveal and teach the doctrine of plural marriage in 1841, even stalwart members like Brigham Young were shocked and at a loss for words. On this thoughtful study, Smith argues that the name of the game introduction of plural marriage a number of the leadership coincided with an evolving public theology that provided a contextualizing religious narrative that persuaded believers to accept the principle.
This fresh interpretation draws from diaries, letters, newspapers, and other primary sources and is especially effective in its use of circle of relatives narratives. It’ll be of great interest not only to scholars and most of the people interested in Mormon history but in American history, religion, gender and sexuality, and the history of marriage and families.