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Cover of History of the Prophet Joseph, by His Mother

History of the Prophet Joseph, by His Mother

Written by Lucy Smith

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Smith, Joseph, Jr., 1805-1844

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About this book

"History of the Prophet Joseph by His Mother" by Lucy Smith is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book provides a personal narrative detailing the life of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, as recounted by his mother, Lucy Mack Smith. The work not only chronicles the life of Joseph but also delves into the family's lineage, their struggles, and the spiritual experiences that shaped them. The opening of the book establishes the context of Lucy Mack Smith's account and the circumstances surrounding its creation. It reveals that the history was initially dictated to an amanuensis, Martha Jane Knowlton Coray, mostly from memory, with some historical references. Additionally, it discusses the manuscript's journey, revisions, and the motivations behind its publication. In the first chapters, it introduces Solomon Mack, Lucy's father, and gives insights into the lives of Lucy’s siblings and family, setting the stage for the later chapters that will focus on Joseph Smith's life and the foundational events of his prophetic mission. The narrative emphasizes Lucy's devotion and perspective as a mother, noting her influence on Joseph's early life and spiritual pursuits.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in History of the Prophet Joseph, by His Mother, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • devotional
  • resilient
  • historical

Lucy Smith's "History of the Prophet Joseph, by His Mother" offers an intimate, first-person account of the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, from his mother's devoted perspective. Dictated largely from memory, the narrative traces the Smith family's lineage, their numerous struggles with poverty, illness, and persecution, and the spiritual experiences that culminated in Joseph's prophetic calling. The book serves as both a deeply personal memoir and a foundational historical document, emphasizing Lucy's unwavering faith and her crucial role in shaping her son's early life and spiritual development. It provides invaluable insight into the domestic and emotional landscape surrounding the formative years of a significant religious movement, filtered through the lens of maternal love and conviction.

“"I have been a witness of the most significant events that have taken place in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and have been present at the most important scenes that have transpired in the history of the Church."”

Key themes

Faith and Spirituality
This theme is central to Lucy's narrative, as she frames all events, both joyful and tragic, through the lens of divine providence and unwavering belief. Her account emphasizes the family's collective spiritual seeking, their personal experiences with the divine, and their steadfast faith in Joseph's prophetic calling despite immense opposition.
Family and Kinship
As a mother's account, the book places immense emphasis on family bonds, loyalty, and the collective experience of the Smith household. Lucy portrays her family as a united front, sharing in trials, triumphs, and spiritual endeavors. The narrative highlights the strength derived from familial support and the sacrifices made for one another.
Persecution and Resilience
The narrative is replete with accounts of the Smith family enduring relentless persecution, including economic hardship, legal challenges, mob violence, and forced displacement. This theme explores their remarkable capacity for resilience, their unwavering commitment to their beliefs despite severe opposition, and their interpretation of suffering as a confirmation of their divine calling.

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How does Lucy Mack Smith's role as a mother influence her narrative and portrayal of Joseph Smith?

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