| Summary: | In this book, a historian explores the introduction of polygamy in Nauvoo, a development that unfolded amid scandal and resistance. The author considers the ideological, historical, and even psychological elements of the process and captures the emotional and cultural detail of this exciting and volatile period in Mormon history. This book illuminates the mystery of early adherents' acceptance of such a radical form of marriage in light of their dedication to the accepted monogamous marriage patterns of their day. When Joseph Smith began to reveal and teach the doctrine of plural marriage in 1841, even stalwart members like Brigham Young were shocked and confused. In this study, the author argues that the secret introduction of plural marriage among the leadership coincided with an evolving public theology that provided a contextualizing religious narrative that persuaded believers to accept the principle. This study draws from diaries, letters, newspapers, and other primary sources, and also relies on documented family narratives.
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