Why does Hamann write so “darkly”? Betz suggests that in part “it should be seen as a calculated attempt to show up the Aufklarer , i.e., to show that they are not as bright as they think, indeed, to force upon them a confession of ignorance, in order that they might thereby be made more disposed to the light of faith they (in Hamann’s view) sorely lack.”
That worked, and didn’t. Everyone who read Hamann commented on how difficult he is to read; but instead of seeing that this exposed their ignorance, they instead threw the fault back on Hamann - the “irrationalist.”
Peter Leithart
Peter J. Leithart is President of Theopolis Institute. He is the author of numerous books on theology, literature, and culture, including Theopolitan, Defending Constantine, and Baptized Body.
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