Myths in Stone: Religious Dimensions of Washington, D.C. (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780520214811)

Washington, D.C., is a city of powerful symbols-from the dominance of the Capitol dome and Washington Monument to the authority of the Smithsonian. This book takes us on a fascinating and informative tour of the nation's capital as Jeffrey F. Meyer unravels the complex symbolism of the city and explores its meaning for our national consciousness. Meyer finds that mythic and religious themes pervade the capital-in its original planning, in its monumental architecture, and in the ritualized events that have taken place over the 200 years the city has been the repository for the symbolism of the nation.

As Meyer tours the city's famous axial layout, he discusses many historical figures and events, compares Washington to other great cities of the world such as Beijing and Berlin, and discusses the meaning and history of its architecture and many works of art. Treating Washington, D.C., as a complex religious center, Meyer finds that the city functions as a unifying element in American consciousness. This book will change the way we look at Washington, D.C., and provide a provocative new look at the meaning of religion in America today. It will also be a valuable companion for those traveling to this city that was envisioned from its inception as the center of the world.

Author: Jeffrey F. Meyer
ISBN-10: 0520214811
ISBN-13: 9780520214811
Publisher: University of California Press
Language: English
Published: 02/13/2001
Pages: 354
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.46lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 0.81d

Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 02/12/2001 pg. 203
Choice 09/01/2001 pg. 136
Christian Century 11/07/2001 pg. 35