A Theological Aesthetics of Liberation

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Since its emergence in the sixties of the last century, liberation theology in Latin America has paid little attention to the areas of aesthetics and art. At the same time, theological aesthetics seldom has been directly and explicitly concerned about the reality of the poor and the struggle for justice. This mutual disinterest between liberation theology and theological aesthetics is regrettable, because discerning a correlation between them would benefit both theological disciplines in their attempt to understand the saving action of God in the world. It is the intention of this book to fill that gap. A Theological Aesthetics of Liberation correlates liberation theology and theological aesthetics, exploring different themes such as the liberating power of art, and how the Spirit of God is involved in the process of liberation in and through art. This study is a critical reflection upon the question of the beauty of Jesus Christ, especially in relationship with the event of the cross, and upon its meaning for Christian life. This book analyzes such topics in conversation with important theologians: Gustavo Gutierrez, Jon Sobrino, Karl Rahner, Hans Urs von Balthasar, Edward Schillebeeckx, and other contemporary Christian theologians who have explored these themes. "This sure-footed study is an important new theological contribution. It offers not only a broadening of the field of theological aesthetics--one which takes the field beyond its familiar Balthasarian base--but also a real deepening of the tradition of Latin American liberation theology. I have learned a great deal from it." --Karen E. Kilby, Durham University "Vicente Chong's book offers original insights into the liberating power of arts . . . he offers an aesthetic understanding of the person of Jesus Christ which is inspired by the Holy Spirit working in the experience of art. Chong systematizes and expands his theological aesthetics of liberation with the help of Edward Schillebeeckx's theology." --Martin Maier SJ, Central American University of San Salvador "Chong provides a timely contribution to theological aesthetics, looking beyond art as an end in itself, seeing it as a means of transformation and liberation, through the action of the Holy Spirit. His account is Christologically enriched by linking beauty and justice in the death of Christ, recognising that liberation also seeks the beauty of a better world." --Martin Poulsom, University of Roehampton Vicente Chong is professor of Theology at the Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador. He earned a PhD in Theology from Heythrop College, University of London.