This book is about the history of an idea-the age-old notion of hell and the soul's punishment after death. It begins with perspectives on this idea found in the ancient world, continues to the medieval period, and culminates with perspectives on the history of this same idea in the modern world of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Several fascinating images accompany a riveting historical and spiritual narrative that at times might trigger anxiety in certain readers. Herin lies all you ever wanted--or didn't want--to know about where you'll spend eternity if you fail to abide by the prescriptions of your chosen religion. The book also contains several appendices on foreign words and phrases, the idea of levels of hell, and how the idea has been portrayed in art over the centuries. Abandon all boredom ye who enter here!
