Ron S. Dart (UFV) uses the imagery of Hermann Hesse's "Glass Bead Game" to reflect on the career and works of Jaroslav Pelikan (1923-2006).
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Speaking of “unifiers,” Ron Dart shows his knack and heart to be such a one in this presentation. It is an excellent discussion on Pelikan.
I would have liked you to make note of Pelikan’s ecclesial (and by implication – historical and theological) move to Orthodoxy in the twilight of his life though Ron. Did this move not have implications that grew from his symphonic and harmonic thought? Did Pelikan – the Magister Ludi – not make a major historical and theological statement in this very personal move? And if so, what was he saying?
Dear Denys,
Yes, indeed, Pelikan did circle the Orthodox airport for many years (gas almost gone) before he landed (his tale and metaphor not mine). And again, Pelikan thought the polyphonic nature of historic Christianity made for the finest and
richest symphonic fullness in Orthodoxy. But, as in Hesse’s Glass Bead Game, Magister Ludi (Joseph Knecht) realized there were limits to the game. Hesse’s ending opens up some interesting paths to ponder for those who think the
beads of integrated thought are the omega point of the journey. Let me know what you think of The Glass bead Game and Hesse’s suggestive conclusion.
Amor Vincit Omnia
Ron