Document Type
Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Arts in English
Advisor
James Tackach, Ph.D.
Abstract
The 1950s are often hailed as the pinnacle of American religiosity. Although Christianity dominated the country’s religious landscape, a “counter-religion” also emerged, led by a group of poets and writers known as the “Beats,” who placed emphasis on decidedly un-Christian practices: sex, drugs, and travel. Yet their literary works, which came to define their beliefs system, contain evidence of a deep spirituality. This thesis examines the fundamental beliefs and practices of this unique brand of American religion through two of the best-known works of the Beat generation: Jack Kerouac’s On the Road and Allen Ginsberg’s Howl.
Recommended Citation
Peters, Megan, "Searching for the 'Ancient Heavenly Connection': 1950s Faith Movements and the 'Counter-Religion' of the Beats" (2020). English Theses. 34.
https://docs.rwu.edu/english_theses/34
