Brandon University is proud to celebrate the release of The Bloomsbury Handbook of Religious Ecstasy, a pioneering academic work co-edited by Dr. Alison Marshall, Professor of Religion at BU. Published by Bloomsbury Academic earlier this spring, the volume offers a sweeping and multidisciplinary exploration of religious ecstasy across traditions, geographies, and practices.
Dr. Marshall collaborated with Dr. Rubina Ramji (Cape Breton University) and Dr. Michael Wilkinson (Trinity Western University) to assemble essays from leading scholars around the globe. The book investigates ecstatic experiences, from trance and spirit possession to modern psychedelic rituals, and their transformative impact on individuals and communities.
"Ecstasy is often misunderstood, exoticized, or dismissed in the modern secular world," said Dr. Marshall. "This volume demonstrates that ecstatic experience is central to many forms of religious life and is deeply tied to healing, identity, power, and resistance."
Dr. Marshall also authored two chapters: "A Tale of Two Ecstasies: A History of Drug-induced Spirituality" and "Stranger Things: Spirit Mediumship and Spirit Possession in China," reflecting her longstanding research focus on Asian religions and intercultural spiritual practices.
Dr. Gregory Kennedy, Dean of Arts at Brandon University, praised the book as a major scholarly achievement.
"Dr. Marshall is an outstanding scholar and leader in her field. This latest work is an exemplary contribution to the global field of religious studies and a testament to the significance of Arts-based research being delivered right here at BU. Bringing together an impressive team of international specialists, Dr. Marshall has helped deliver a book that will deepen and diversify our understanding of religion and culture. This research resonates with contemporary and complex experiences of spirituality as well as the search for meaning and connection in our modern world."
Dr. Bernadette Ardelli, Vice President (Research & Graduate Studies), echoed this sentiment.
"Brandon University researchers are shaping important international conversations, and The Bloomsbury Handbook of Religious Ecstasy is a prime example. Dr. Marshall's editorial and scholarly leadership affirms our institutional commitment to research excellence in the humanities."
Dr. Marshall is no stranger to accolades. She received the Canadian Society for the Study of Religion First Book Prize in 2015 for The Way of the Bachelor: Early Chinese Settlement in Western Manitoba, and she was awarded the William Norrie Arts and Culture Award in 2021 for her community work bridging diverse cultural groups.
The Bloomsbury Handbook of Religious Ecstasy is available in hardcover and digital formats through Bloomsbury and academic booksellers.
