Methodism mocked : the satiric reaction to Methodism in the 18th century by Albert M Lyles
Epworth Press, 1960 191 pages (out of print but may be available secondhand)
The author of this interesting book is a lecturer in English at an American university, clearly well versed in literary genres.
He examines the very hostile reaction as expressed in literary satire to Methodism and the Methodist leaders – John Wesley and George Whitfield – in the 18th century.
Particular targets for attack were the practice of field preaching and hymn singing as well as the theological doctrines emphasised by the Methodists, especially justification by faith and perfection.
Although the rise of Methodism in the 18th century has been well researched as a matter of history, the literary reaction to the Methodism of the time is examined here in great detail.
It shows just how virulent and malicious were the personal attacks on Methodism as voiced in satiric literature, often poetically.
The start date for this study is 1732 (Fogg’s Weekly Journal 9th December 1732) and ends, arbitrarily, in 1800.
A few pictorial illustrations give graphic expression to the vicious taunts against our 18th century forbears who endured so much for the gospel.
A fascinating insight into Methodist history.