12-11-2007, 08:24 PM | #11 | |
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Quote:
Oh, I agree with this except I would argue for non-members the definitive Biography is still "No Man Knows My History." Last edited by pelagius; 12-11-2007 at 08:27 PM. |
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12-11-2007, 08:26 PM | #12 |
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Once again, MW, I don't understand this statement. It seems to want to reduce history to a simple retelling or reciting of a facts. Bushman clearly brings to bear new sources and certainly provides a new or augmented framework.
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12-11-2007, 08:28 PM | #13 |
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Let me give you an example, so you can understand. If we were to find a previously unknown diary of Joseph Smith, that contained his thoughts over 20 years, that would be material that would lead to a "breakthrough" in terms of biography.
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12-11-2007, 08:30 PM | #14 |
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Did you ever finish the book, Mike? Surely you wouldn't be making these comments solely on reviews, would you?
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12-11-2007, 08:33 PM | #15 |
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12-11-2007, 08:34 PM | #16 |
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Of course, I agree with that. However, that is not the only way that a "breakthrough" happens. I think you are giving Bushman's approach and framework far too little credit. Also, it is hard to imagine this led to the lukewarm reception by non-members where the typical reviewer had probably only read Brodie. There is a substantial amount of new information relative to Brodie.
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12-11-2007, 08:39 PM | #17 |
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Finally, a good criticism of the book. Ultimately, I think this is why the book will not be the definitive biography. Its just not as readable or as fun as Brodie. Its far better history but Brodie's prose sparkles and she wraps up Joseph Smith in a neat little bow for her readers.
Last edited by pelagius; 12-11-2007 at 09:07 PM. |
12-11-2007, 08:43 PM | #18 |
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Sorry. Couldn't resist.
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12-11-2007, 08:44 PM | #19 |
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12-11-2007, 08:50 PM | #20 |
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