Newman, John Henry (1801-1890)

Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 10: Mass Music-Newman -- from Herbermann, Charles George (1840-1916)

Newman, John Henry (1801-1890) -- from Wikipedia Article

Callista: a Tale of the Third Century

Dream of Gerontius

Description: Edward Elgar set Newman’s dramatic poem to music as an oratorio in 1900. This oratorio, in fact, became the most popular choral work in Britain after Handel’s Messiah. The poem itself tells the story of an old man and his soul’s entrance into purgatory after death. Because of its deeply theological and supernatural content, some have compared the poem to the works of Dante. Like Dante’s works, Newman’s poem does not sacrifice narrative suspense and ingenuity for depth of thought, instead retaining both. Because of its masterful portrayal of a person’s confrontation with death, “The Dream of Geronitus” transcends its Catholic roots and appeals to readers of all cultures and faiths.

Kathleen O’Bannon
CCEL Staff

Newman's Apologia Pro Vita Sua

Description: John Henry Newman was converted to Christianity at age 15 and developed views close to Calvinism in his early life. He was ordained an Anglican priest after attending Oxford, and became the leader of the Oxford Movement, a push to return to Catholic roots in Anglicism. After much debate, he resigned from the Church of England and later converted to Catholicism, where he was appointed Cardinal. This interesting turn of events and roller-coaster of emotion is related in Newman's autobiography, Apologia Pro Vita Sua ("a defense of one's life"). He was prompted to write the book after what he felt to be unfair accusations were levied against him. It is, indeed, a spiritual autobiography, detailing Newman's religious opinions over the course of his life. The Cardinal's story is regarded on the same level as St. Augustine's Confessions, and almost any reader will develop empathy for Newman's zealous apologetics followed by periods of confusion. Coupled with his eloquent prose and well-formed logic, Newman's testimony is an inspiring read that, in the words of one reviewer, "explains all, apologizes for nothing."

Abby Zwart
CCEL Staff Writer

Tracts for the Times