Abstract:
This thesis has been a perusal of the literature written about Joseph Smith, Jr., Prophet and founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Inasmuch as Joseph Smith's teachings, accomplishments and claims are of a controversial nature, inevitably the characterizations of Smith are markedly varied. This thesis emphasizes the viewpoints as sketched in professional literature and college and university history textbooks. This study contrasts the literature which is favorable to Joseph Smith with the writings obviously intended to discredit his motives and claims. To lend balance, some reasonably unbiased works are discussed.When possible, this study analyzes the credentials and thesis examines Smith's writings and other primary sources, indicates his relationship with his contemporaries, and presents anti --Mormon and pro-Mormon assessments of nineteenth and twentieth century writers.