Christina Rossetti
Poetry, Ecology, Faith
Emma Mason
Reviews and Awards
"The brilliance of this book rests in no small measure on Mason's accomplishment as literary critic, biographer and theologian. Her analysis, in chapter 1, of the influence of the Cappadocians and of key Anglo-Catholic thinkers on Rossetti is an object lesson in patient, sympathetic analysis. Equally, Mason's reminder that Rossetti was – despite popular views – no quiet and lonely poet will surprise some readers. I hope that readers will be energised by Mason's challenge to re-engage with the theological and environmental radicalism of Rossetti and wider Victorian Christian culture." -- Rachel Mann, Manchester Metropolitan University, Modern Believing
"Every so often a book falls into your hands that speaks immediately and energet-ically to your own imaginative concerns....As I contemplate the environmental crisis - or catastrophe, as we are told we have only 12 years left to get our act together - faced by the world today, Mason's portrayal of Rossetti's faith and poetry offers theological and prayerful resources to inspire contemplation of God's faithful grace, enough to transcend any apocalypse. This is a work of theological hope that is profound enough to fathom the depths of anxiety today." -- Frankie Ward, Workington, Theology
"Mason's attention to Rossetti's fascination with "multiplicity" generates some provocative new readings of her work, not least "Goblin Market." Readers interested in Rossetti, Victorian religion, and contemporary eco-theology more generally will find it stimulating." -- Miriam Elizabeth Burstein, College at Brockport, State University of New York, Religion and the Arts
"[a] most compelling study" -- David Marx Book Reviews
"I would recommend this book to anyone currently writing on Rossetti or thinking about doing so." -- Diane D'Amico, Review 19
"[A] reasoned, convinced and convincing work, that shows Christina Rossetti to be far more than we have been led to believe ... Mason does a fine job of putting a real importance behind the work of Christina Rossetti, a poet truly ahead of her time." --John F. Deane, The Irish Catholic