Description

(quote from back cover)

"The Sword of Laban breaks exciting new ground in early Mormon scholarship. Dr. Morain draws on his experience as a surgeon treating childhood trauma to theorize brilliantly about the psychological consequences of young Joseph Smith, Jr.'s painful leg surgery. He relates this, along with other insightful observations about Smith's familial and environmental influences, to a textual analysis of The Book of Mormon that is remarkably original and convincing. He drives home his arguments with a dramatic intensity, writing in a style that is both scholarly and colorful. You might not agree with all of the controversial conclusions reached in The Sword of Laban, but you won't put it down until you've turned the final page."

    William D. Russell
    Professor of American History, Graceland College
    Former President, Mormon History Association (1982-1983)

Table of Contents

Preface
Chapter

1. The Prophet
2. Bloodshed
3. Strategic Defenses
4. The Pleasure of Treasure
5. Trance-lation
6. His Brother's Keeper
7. The Arrows of Eros
8. Inalienable Rites

Epilogue