The highest style of humanity : religion, the New South creed, and Holland Nimmons McTyeire

WCU Author/Contributor (non-WCU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Christopher Michael Bishop (Creator)
Institution
Western Carolina University (WCU )
Web Site: http://library.wcu.edu/
Advisor
Richard Starnes

Abstract: Through an examination of the religious ideology of Holland Nimmons McTyeire as evidenced in his sermons, editorials, and other writings, this thesis sheds light on the relationship between religion and the New South creed. Although he developed his ideology in the antebellum era, his ideas carried over into the postwar era albeit changed because of his war experience and the New South context. Because McTyeire believed that the South lacked a stable social structure, as he felt God desired, new leaders had to be established. Without the traditional leadership of the gentry, middle class professionals rose to power and McTyeire helped push the Methodist Episcopal Church, South to be accommodating toward their business practices, ambitions, and social prestige. His ideology essentially merged with the New South creed to become a plan of action to advance the southern Methodist church by modernizing its ecclesiastical structure, professionalizing its ministry, and defending its beliefs and institutions. Ultimately, McTyeire declared victory for his plan of action while ignoring many convenient realities that indicated otherwise. In the end, McTyeire?s actions hastened the shift of southern Methodism from a populist religion of the heart toward an all-white, high-brow, and wealthy denomination.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 2010
Keywords
Holland Nimmons McTyeire, Methodist Episcopal Church, South, New South Creed, Vanderbilt University
Subjects
McTyeire, Holland Nimmons, 1824-1889 -- Influence
McTyeire, Holland Nimmons, 1824-1889 -- Religion
Methodist Episcopal Church -- History
Southern States -- Religious life and customs

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