Bloomsbury Handbook of Mimetic Theory

The Bloomsbury Handbook of Mimetic Theory is an indispensable resource for understanding René Girard’s mimetic theory and its far-reaching implications for a wide range of academic fields and real-world issues.An impressive team of established and emerging scholars demonstrate the powerful reach of the theory. Drawing on expertise in subjects including artificial intelligence, feminism, pop culture, war and terror, they amplify the impact of mimetic theory, assess its global reception and consider its practical applications.Organized into five parts, this handbook is a thorough examination of Girard’s powerful and provocative theory of culture, violence, and religion.- Part I addresses fundamental themes such as desire, violence, religion, apocalypse, and conversion- Part II connects Girard's work to Augustine, Nietzsche and Shakespeare as well as Weil and Sartre, tracing his formative dialogue with the work of major thinkers and literary figures in detail- Part III covers the interdisciplinary nature of mimetic theory with chapters on aesthetics, film studies, psychology and theology- Part IV goes beyond purely theoretical explorations by addressing pressing contemporary issues like populism, digital media, and non-violence- Part V charts mimetic theory around the world, detailing the reception of mimetic theory in different linguistic contexts- Part VI examines mimetic theory’s real-world applications—its uses in education, its achievements in peace-making and fostering friendship.Mimetic theory is a growing field of inquiry with active researchers on every continent. This is the first comprehensive , global survey of mimetic theory and its relevance to 21st-century challenges. Engaging with urgent questions around digital media, race, and religious extremism, it provides newcomers and specialists alike with an essential and up-to-date guide to Girard’s influential ideas.