The Life of the Rev. John Wesley, M.A.
Some Time Fellow of Lincoln-College, Oxford

Published amid controversy in 1793–6, this two-volume biography remains an important portrait of Methodism's founders and early history.

John Whitehead (Author)

9781108059664, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 6 May 2013

528 pages, 1 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 3 cm, 0.66 kg

Published in 1793–6, amid controversy following the death of John Wesley (1703–91), this two-volume work vied with others for status as the most authentic biography of the Methodist leader. Wesley had left his papers to his physician John Whitehead (c.1740–1804) and the ministers Thomas Coke and Henry Moore, but Whitehead monopolised the papers in the preparation of his biography, refusing to allow his fellow executors access - the dispute is mentioned in the prefatory matter to Volume 1. In addition to tracing John's career up to 1735, this volume contains accounts of his relatives, notably a substantial life of his brother Charles (1707–88), distinguished hymnodist and fellow founder of Methodism. This remains an important critical appraisal of the movement's early history, offering researchers valuable insights into the contemporary debates over the future and structure of Methodism.

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Preface
Part I. Giving Some Account of Mr Wesley's Relations: 1. Of his great-grandfather and grandfather
2. Of his grandfather Annesley
3. Of his father, Mr Samuel Wesley
4. Of his mother, and of his sister, Mrs Wright
5. Of his brother, Samuel Wesley, junior
6. Some account of the life of his brother Mr Charles Wesley
7. Part II: 1. Mr John Wesley, from his birth to the year 1729
2. Mr Wesley's residence at Oxford from November 1729, to October 1735.

Subject Areas: British & Irish history [HBJD1]