
Set against the backdrop of the Great War, this work examines how a continent immersed in unprecedented violence begins to question the very foundations of its civilization. The author invites listeners to consider why an age hailed as the pinnacle of enlightenment could be eclipsed by such a catastrophic conflict. By probing the tension between optimism about progress and the stark reality of battlefield horrors, the opening frames a broader cultural reckoning.
Central to that reckoning is the shifting role of Christianity, which the author argues has been losing its moral grip on European societies long before the guns fell silent. Drawing on observations of dwindling church attendance, the spread of secular literature, and the uneasy silence of many clergy, the narrative explores whether the war is a divine chastisement for growing unbelief. The tone is thoughtful and rationalist, offering a sober analysis rather than polemic, inviting listeners to weigh faith, reason, and the costs of conflict.
Language
en
Duration
~3 hours (211K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2006-06-22
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1867–1955
A former Franciscan monk turned prolific writer and public speaker, this English rationalist spent decades explaining science, history, and religion to general readers. His books and translations helped bring big debates about faith and freethought to a wide audience.
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