The apologetic value of theological truth through story and pattern in the works of Dorothy L. Sayers

Thesis

This thesis sets out to understand the theological method of Dorothy L. Sayers, a complex woman of letters. The preeminent argument is that a new and helpful paradigm for understanding Sayers' work and evaluating her contribution to Christian apologetics is her emphasis on accessing and expressing theological 'truth', through 'story' and 'pattern'. Sayers consistently explored theological truths in the context of dramatic narratives and orderly systems.

The primary research methodology is to find, read and use Sayers' own letters as the principal sources to shed light on her published work. The thesis seeks to show that recognising Sayers' passion for truth, through story and pattern makes a significant contribution towards understanding her canon as a unity. The thesis differs in perspective in this regard from other Sayers scholarship, which has placed emphasis on other particular theological motifs or literary points in her career as an author. Furthermore, this thesis will differ from other theological analyses of Sayers' work in that it engages with the full diversity of genres in Sayers' canon and does so from a rigorous theological perspective rather than by taking a biographical approach.

This thesis contributes to current theological understanding by bringing the work of a significant lay female Christian thinker of the twentieth century to the attention of scholarship. Sayers' work has continuing resonance for contemporary theologians who are interested in the role of narrative, drama and analogy in theology, and in the creative communication of theological ideas.

Authors: Orr-Ewing, A

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-dqpp7b6d6
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford