The Bible's Influence on Western Civilization - Hardcover

by Jerry Pattengale (Author), Timothy Dalrymple (Author)

Discover the Bible's Remarkable Influence on Culture.

The Bible's Influence on Western Civilization represents a fascinating journey through history, art, music, literature, and language, exploring how the Bible has shaped creative expression across centuries and civilizations. Biblical stories have inspired everything from the music of U2, Bob Dylan, and Mozart to cinematic masterpieces like The Matrix. Learn how the Bible's themes echo through iconic sculptures like Michelangelo's David, paintings like Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, and classic literature such as Paradise Lost.

This textbook focuses on educating students about the Bible's rich cultural impact on art, literature, history, and more. The steady flow of historical examples and images allow you to assess levels and types of connections to societies--especially America's. Each chapter presents examples of the Bible's influence, offers concise story summaries, and highlights cultural masterpieces inspired by these ancient texts. Explore how the world's most widely read book continues to stimulate creativity and cultural dialogue today.

Author Biography

Jerry Pattengale, PhD, is a founding scholar at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., where he still serves as Senior Advisor, and a distinguished professor and administrator at Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU). His influence also extends beyond academia. As a Senior Fellow with the Sagamore Institute, CSR associate publisher, on the JEC board at Yale Divinity School, and on the National Press Club's Membership Committee, he continues to shape thought leadership on history, faith, and culture at the state and global levels.

Timothy Dalrymple, PhD, is a graduate of Stanford University, Princeton Theological Seminary, and Harvard University's Graduate School of the Arts and Sciences. He helped launch Patheos (2008-2014), the world's largest forum for religious conversation, beginning as managing channel editor and later serving as director of content and vice president of business development. In 2013, he also founded and led Polymath, a creative agency that helps businesses and nonprofits. In addition to his writing and film commitments, he is the immediate past CEO and president of Christianity Today, and as of 2025 serves as President and CEO of the John Templeton Foundation.