Culture and Anarchy · Chapter
Chapter I explained
Arnold critiques the Nonconformist opposition to Church establishments, arguing that their reliance on a mechanical interpretation of Christ's words ('My kingdom is not of this world') leads to a misguided approach to reform, such as the di
What happens
Arnold critiques the Nonconformist opposition to Church establishments, arguing that their reliance on a mechanical interpretation of Christ's words ('My kingdom is not of this world') leads to a misguided approach to reform, such as the disestablishment of the Irish Church. He advocates for a more Hellenistic approach—free play of thought and reason—over rigid Hebraistic maxims, emphasizing the importance of public, national worship and the need to align political action with reason and justice rather than mere antipathy.
Themes in this chapter
Hebraism vs. Hellenism
Arnold contrasts the Hebraistic, rule-bound approach of Nonconformists (e.g., Mr. Spurgeon) with the Hellenistic ideal of free thought and reason, arguing for the latter in political and religious reform.
The Role of the State and Authority
The chapter examines the legitimacy of state-established churches versus private religious worship, advocating for national, public establishments as more conducive to collective worship and social cohesion.
Machinery vs. Ends
Arnold criticizes the Nonconformist maxim against Church establishments as a 'mechanical rule' or 'fetish,' arguing that it prioritizes a rigid means over the true ends of reason, justice, and human perfection.
Characters to notice
- Narrator
The primary voice analyzing the Nonconformist position and advocating for Hellenism.
- Mr. Spurgeon
Cited as a representative Hebraiser and Nonconformist leader whose maxim against Church establishments is critiqued.
- Mr. Bright
Mentioned in the context of admiring Mr. Spurgeon's Tabernacle, illustrating the Nonconformist perspective.
- Joubert
Quoted on the nature of worship and prayer, supporting Arnold's argument for public and collective religious practice.
- Jesus Christ
His words 'My kingdom is not of this world' are central to the debate over Church establishments and their interpretation.
Key passages
“My kingdom is not of this world.”
Christ's religion is a force of inward persuasion acting on the soul, not outward constraint.
Arnold interprets this biblical quote to argue against the Nonconformist use of it as a mechanical rule against Church establishments.
“Just what makes worship impressive, is its publicity, its external manifestation, its sound, its splendour, its observance universally and visibly holding its way through all the details both of our outward and of our inward life.”
Public, national worship is more emotionally and spiritually powerful than private worship.
Quoting Joubert to support the value of established churches in fostering collective devotion.
“The best prayers are those which have nothing distinct about them, and which are thus of the nature of simple adoration.”
Prayers that are general and communal unite people more than those that are individual and specific.
Further citation of Joubert to emphasize the unifying power of public worship.