John C. Metford

Dictionary of Christian Lore and Legend John C. Metford

For almost two thousand years Christian themes have inspired artists, musicians and writers. A visit to an art gallery, an evening at an opera or concert performance, contemplation of the sculptural ornamentation of a church or cathedral, all confirm how essential to full appreciation is some knowledge of Christian culture. Poems, essays, novels, even colloquial speech, contain Christian references. Therefore the purpose of this dictionary is to provide, in convenient and concise form, a guide to the essential of this Christian tradition in the arts, music and literature. It is intended for the non-specialist. An explanation of the words 'lore' and 'legend' as used in the title of this Dictionary may be helpful to the reader. By 'lore' is meant the learning and background knowledge associated with Christian culture. 'Legend' is used in its original sense of 'something to be read', a narrative which may be historical, traditional, or symbolic, without pre-judgment as to its veracity.