He is neither a cheerleader for American religiosity nor a cynical critic. Whether discussing the stern theology of Jonathan Edwards or the charismatic charisma of Aimee Semple McPherson, Allitt treats every subject with historical respect. He asks: What did they believe? Why did they believe it? And how did it change the world around them?
He highlights how America transitioned from a predominantly Protestant nation to one of the most religiously diverse countries on Earth. Key Themes Explored in the Course 1. The Great Awakenings TTC - Prof. Patrick N Allitt - American Religious History
Many audiobooks feel like work. Allitt’s lectures are performance art. He paces the stage (you can hear his footsteps in the audio version), chuckles at his own jokes, and uses vocal mimicry to bring historical figures to life. His lecture on Joseph Smith (Lecture 17, “The Rise of Mormonism”) is gripping enough to rival a true-crime podcast. He is neither a cheerleader for American religiosity