Martyn Whittock Knihy

Women play an immensely important role in the from Eve to the Virgin Mary, Sarah to Mary Magdalene, Naomi to the anonymous woman suffering severe menstrual bleeding who was healed by Jesus. They are a sisterhood of faith. As such, they challenge many of our assumptions about the role of women in the development of the biblical story; about the impact of faith on lives lived in the 'heat and dust' of the real world. Here we will meet the prostitute who ended up in the genealogy of Jesus, a national resistance fighter, a determined victim of male sexual behaviour who challenged patriarchal power, a far from meek and mild mother of Jesus, a woman whose life has been so misrepresented that she is now the subject of the most bizarre conspiracy theories, and more.Renowned historians and Biblical scholars, Martyn and Esther Whittock, take the reader on a fascinating journey, one unafraid to ask difficult questions, such as, 'Was Eve set up to fall?'

Exploring the allure of Valhalla, this book delves into the rich tapestry of Norse mythology and its pantheon of gods and heroes. It highlights how these ancient tales not only illuminate the Viking world but also shape modern cultural icons, influencing renowned figures like J. R. R. Tolkien and permeating Hollywood and comic culture. The connection between these myths and contemporary storytelling reveals their enduring impact on literature and popular media.

From rape and pillage to exploration and piety - the whole story of the Vikings

Leading into the 400th anniversary of the voyage of the Mayflower, Martyn Whittock examines the lives of the “saints” (members of the Separatist puritan congregations) and “strangers” (economic migrants) on the original ship. Collectively, these people would become known to history as “the Pilgrims.”The story of the Pilgrims has taken on a life of its own as one of our founding national myths—their escape from religious persecution, the dangerous transatlantic journey, that brutal first winter. Throughout the narrative, we meet characters already familiar to us through Thanksgiving folklore—Captain Jones, Myles Standish, and Tisquantum (Squanto)—as well as new ones.There is Mary Chilton, the first woman to set foot on shore, and asylum seeker William Bradford. We meet fur trapper John Howland and little Mary More, who was brought as an indentured servant. Then there is Stephen Hopkins, who had already survived one shipwreck and was the only Mayflower passenger with any prior American experience. Decidedly un-puritanical, he kept a tavern and was frequently chastised for allowing drinking on Sundays.Epic and intimate, Mayflower Lives is a rich and rewarding book that promises to enthrall readers of early American history.

Repression, control, manipulation and elimination of enemies assisted in the establishment of the Soviet state, and helped maintain it in power, but could not, in the end, prevent its collapse.

In this introduction to the myths and legends of the Celts Whittock draws extensively on up-to-date archaeological evidence, Greek and Roman inscriptions, and medieval Irish and Welsh manuscripts. In addition to examining the myths of the Irish and the Welsh, this account also explores the related mythologies of Scotland, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, and Brittany.

Exploring the roots and evolution of apocalyptic beliefs across various religious cultures, this book examines their connections to radicalized politics and populist movements. Through a series of case studies spanning different faiths and historical contexts, it delves into how these beliefs have shaped political landscapes and influenced contemporary society. The analysis highlights the significant impact of apocalyptic thinking on modern global issues, revealing its persistent role in driving extreme political ideologies.

The book examines how many Christians interpret modern political events through an apocalyptic lens, particularly in relation to the second coming of Christ as taught in the New Testament. Historian Martyn Whittock highlights the dangers of confidently linking current events to biblical prophecy, emphasizing a historical pattern of failed predictions over two millennia. He argues that these interpretations often mirror contemporary ideologies, warning that neglecting the lessons of the past can lead to repeated mistakes. Whittock advocates for a more nuanced understanding of Jesus' teachings.

This history delves into the early Viking settlements in North America, distinguishing between fact and fiction while unraveling myths and legends. It offers a thorough examination of the Vikings' exploration and impact, providing insights into their culture and interactions with indigenous peoples. Through meticulous research, the book sheds light on this often-overlooked chapter of history, enriching our understanding of the Viking legacy in the New World.

By bringing together all of the available evidence on the life of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, this book offers a compelling biography of His time on Earth. Looking at sources such as the gospels, inscriptions, early Church writings, the apocryphal gospels and more, readers will be able to vividly visualise Jesus' life and his First-Century Jewish cultural context. If you've ever wondered about the impact of Jesus' social class on his ministry; the influence on His disciples of contemporary resistance movements; or the prominent role of women in the disciple community, then allow this book to challenge and deepen your understanding of the Jesus described in the Bible.