Among Famous Books

"Among Famous Books" by John Kelman is a collection of lectures written in the early 20th century. The book examines notable works of literature throughout history, using a thematic focus on the ongoing struggle between paganism and idealism in human experience. Through careful analysis, the author seeks to highlight the spiritual and literary significance of these revered texts. The beginning of the book introduces readers to the overarching theme of the lectures—exploring the tension between materialistic pagan tendencies and spiritual idealism that has existed throughout history. In the opening remarks, Kelman outlines his approach, indicating that he will draw upon examples from classical literature, the sixteenth century, and modern works. Specific attention is given to Greek mythology and the images of gods and their influence on human thought—a prelude to the exploration of famous literary figures and their relationships with these core themes. Through this framework, Kelman prepares to delve into a detailed analysis of significant literary texts, forging connections between their narratives and the universal struggles of humanity.