American Catholic Arts and Fictions

Exploring the interplay between Catholicism and American arts, Paul Giles examines how secular interpretations of religious concepts have influenced the works of notable American figures, including writers and filmmakers. He investigates the representation and mythologization of Catholicism in literature, revealing recurring themes that challenge traditional views of romanticism's dominance in the American literary canon. By reconstructing the social and historical contexts of Catholic aesthetics, Giles highlights their complex relationship with Enlightenment ideals.