Girard's Use of Mimetic Theory
Girard and Theology – By Michael Kirwan

AbstractWith the advent of Rene Girard's Violence and the Sacred, mimetic theory has become relevant as a vehicle for looking at religion and its origins. In later works, Girard uses mimetic theory specifically as an interpretive principle for scripture, and in doing so, arrives at a theology that provides for the existence of a sacred free of violence and violent agency. How, though, does Girard's theory correlate with other theological paradigms? Where does Girard fit in? And is Girard's theory able to further the possibilities of theological discourse? These are the aims of Kirwan's book, which provides an excellent overview of various branches of theology, the prevailing paradigms in each area, and how Girard might be located within those frames. Kirwan also gives ample space to the criticisms that have been voiced concerning Girard and his theory. Overall, this book is a convincing exposition of the versatility of mimetic theory, and how it may indeed contribute across the wide spectrum theological thought.