The Progressionists, and Angela (ePub)

Conrad von Bolanden, born Joseph Bischoff on May 29, 1828, in Bolanden, Germany, was a Catholic priest and a prolific 19th-century German writer who focused on themes reflecting his staunch Catholicism and conservative political views. He adopted his pen name from his birthplace, embodying a deep connection to his roots. Bolanden's literary contributions were primarily aimed at the popular market, and he became well-known for his historical fiction and polemic works. Among his many writings, 'The Progressionists,' a work that critiques the cultural and political progressive movements of his time, stands out for its keen observations and its reflection on the challenges facing traditional social and religious structures amidst change. Similarly, 'Angela' takes readers through a narrative that intertwines personal faith with the broader societal currents, presenting a perspective that bolsters the Catholic viewpoint within the socio-political debates that marked the era. Conrad von Bolanden's style is characterized by a didactic approach, as he utilizes his storytelling to underscore moral and religious lessons within historical and contemporary contexts. His books offer a window into the 19th century struggles between secularism and religion, elucidating his defense of the Catholic Church during Kulturkampf, the conflict between the Prussian state and the Catholic Church. Despite being less known today, Bolanden's works were influential in his time, contributing to the literary and cultural discourse that shaped the identity of Catholic literature in Germany during the latter part of the 19th century (Lins, 1910; Ott, 1912).