Violence and Religion examines a recurring theme in history, that of the tension between religious faith and political and militant action. Judy Sproxton offers a detailed and fascinating reading of the writings of some of the major figures of the time including Calvin, d'Aubigne, Cromwell, Winstanley and the poet Andrew Marvell.

Looking at texts written during two periods of major political upheaval and civil unrest in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, she explores the division between their different understanding of the self-interest of humanity and the will of God.