Religious fanaticism

Definition

Religious fanaticism refers to an extreme and uncritical zeal or devotion to a particular religion, often leading to irrational behavior, intolerance toward other beliefs, and a willingness to engage in violence or persecution in the name of that faith. This fervent commitment can manifest in various forms, including dogmatic belief systems and the demonization of those who do not share the same views, often presenting significant moral dilemmas and societal conflicts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Charles Brockden Brown's works often feature characters whose religious fanaticism leads them into moral ambiguity and psychological turmoil.
2. In his Gothic novels, religious fanaticism is portrayed as both a source of personal conflict and societal instability, reflecting the anxieties of early American society.
3. Brown critiques the dangers of extreme religious zeal through narratives that showcase the destructive consequences of such fanaticism on individuals and communities.
4. The theme of religious fanaticism in Brown's literature aligns with historical contexts of the time, where religious fervor often fueled conflicts and tensions in early America.
5. Characters like Edgar Huntly represent the struggle between rational thought and the overpowering influence of religious extremism, highlighting a significant theme in Brown's exploration of human psychology.

Review Questions

• How does Charles Brockden Brown use characters displaying religious fanaticism to reflect societal anxieties of his time?
  • Brown utilizes characters who exhibit religious fanaticism as a mirror to the societal anxieties prevalent in early America. These characters often embody the clash between reason and extreme belief, revealing how such fervor can lead to irrational behavior and personal turmoil. Through their struggles, Brown critiques the potential for religious zeal to disrupt social harmony and contribute to broader conflicts within society.
• What role does religious fanaticism play in shaping the moral dilemmas faced by characters in Brown's Gothic novels?
  • Religious fanaticism serves as a catalyst for moral dilemmas in Brown's Gothic novels, forcing characters into situations where their beliefs conflict with ethical considerations. This internal struggle highlights the psychological complexities of zealotry, as characters grapple with their convictions while confronting the harmful consequences of their actions. The tension between faith and morality adds depth to character development and enhances the overall narrative conflict.
• Evaluate how Brown's portrayal of religious fanaticism contributes to the understanding of human psychology within the context of Gothic literature.
  • Brown's portrayal of religious fanaticism offers profound insights into human psychology by illustrating how extreme beliefs can distort perception, cloud judgment, and incite violence. His Gothic narratives delve into the inner workings of characters influenced by their zealous convictions, revealing how these psychological transformations reflect broader themes of fear, alienation, and existential dread. The intersection of faith and madness in his works encourages readers to consider the fragility of rationality when confronted with fervent ideologies.

Related terms

Dogmatism: An unwavering attachment to certain beliefs or doctrines, often without consideration for evidence or opposing viewpoints.

Sectarianism: A divisive loyalty to a specific sect within a larger religious context, leading to conflict with other sects or religious groups.

Millenarianism: The belief in a coming transformation of society, often tied to apocalyptic expectations and the idea of a 'final battle' between good and evil.