RENE GIRARD AMONG THE THEOLOGIANS

This essay explores the influence of Ren & eacute; Girard on the study of religion, and in particular the disciplines of theology. Some commentators have described Girard as a theologian; however, it is more accurate to see his work as "theologically-inflected anthropology." The implications of this are explained with reference to Girard's first two books, and a later text, I See Satan Fall Like Lightning. . Two factors are important in assessing Girard's significance for theology: firstly, his conversion, both intellectual and spiritual, at the beginning of his career, and secondly, his collaboration with the Swiss Jesuit theologian, Raymund Schwager. Girard's contribution becomes evident, as the link between his theological anthropology (or "anthropophany") and the doctrine of salvation (soteriology) comes into view. The essay concludes with an overview of Girard's reception by theologians, both sympathetic and critical, and some examples of how mimetic theory is being applied to issues of contemporary Christian living.