Matthew Arnold 
Literature & Dogma (Barnes & Noble Digital Library) 
An Essay Towards a Better Apprehension of the Bible

In this influential 1873 essay, Arnold professes his skepticism about Christianity as a revealed religion yet argues for the utility of its ethical precepts. Therefore he proposes a liberal reading of scripture and secular faith that incorporates the civilizing aspects of religion. 

Circa l’autore

Matthew Arnold (1822-1888) wrote “Dover Beach” (1867), one of the best-known poems in the English language. A prominent Victorian man of letters, he was appointed professor of poetry at Oxford. His writings on contemporary society, culture, and religion were instrumental in establishing criticism as an art form.