Kierkegaard

Backhouse (The Compact Guide to Christian History) summarizes Kierkegaard's life and thought for the lay reader in a work that can be "read on holiday." The first part of the book is biography; the second provides synopses of Kierkegaard's works. Backhouse's strategy of splitting life from work creates a problem: Kierkegaard, at least in Backhouse's telling (though he does find some who praise and defend his subject), is a self-absorbed, insensitive, and annoying subject. By the time readers arrive at deeply sympathetic sections%E2%80%94the effects of Kierkegaard's twisted spine, the cruelty he was subjected to by his rivals%E2%80%94they may already loathe him. The book never attempts to understand how such a repugnant personality could produce such stunning, faith-based thought. That said, this primer on the life and career of Kierkegaard will be a fine introduction to those who know little about the controversial philosopher. Though the accounts of Kierkegaard the person seem only to disparage, the sections that discuss his writings and posthumous influence are worth the price of the book. (Aug.)