Afro-eccentricity
Book Description
William D. Hart presents a thought-provoking examination of how Black religious experience has been understood and interpreted through dominant cultural lenses. In this scholarly yet accessible work, Hart identifies what he terms the "Standard Narrative of Black Religion," which encompasses three primary storytelling frameworks: the Soul, Black Church, and Ancestor Narratives that have shaped most discussions of African American spirituality.
Using the concept of "Afro-eccentricity" as both wordplay and analytical tool, Hart challenges readers to consider alternative perspectives on Black religious traditions. He demonstrates his approach through a detailed analysis of Paule Marshall's novel "Praisesong for the Widow," revealing how this literary work becomes a contested space between Afrocentric and what he calls "Afro-Eccentric" interpretations of ancestral wisdom.
The book further explores the contributions of four significant scholars—Charles H. Long, William R. Jones, Cornel West, and Theophus Smith—whose theoretical work transcends the boundaries of conventional religious narratives. Hart shows how these thinkers offer fresh insights that push beyond traditional limitations in understanding Black spiritual experience.
For readers interested in comparative religion, ethnic spirituality, and the psychology of religious experience, this work offers valuable perspectives on how cultural narratives shape our understanding of faith traditions. Hart invites readers to consider more nuanced approaches to interpreting religious experience within African American communities.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 239 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Ethnic & Tribal
- ✓ Explore RELIGION / Ethnic & Tribal
- ✓ Understand psychological principles
- ✓ Explore RELIGION / Comparative Religion
- ✓ Explore Comparative Religion
- ✓ Explore RELIGION / Psychology of Religion
- ✓ Explore RELIGION
- ✓ Explore Religion
