This biography sets Wesley and his movement against the background of his time, so that we can see the political, social and religious influences on growing Methodism. Full attention is paid to contemporary figures: not only Charles Wesley and George Whitefield but also the Moravians and others whose movements influenced Methodism, both positively and negatively. John Wesley himself emerges as a truly human figure, with many weaknesses, not least where women are concerned; and we are left to wonder that his work created a movement which has lasted for more than 250 years.;This new and updated edition incorporates an expanded and revised introduction which takes account of new developments in the field, while the original bibliography and supplement of the second edition have also been updated. A new preface is included, while in the main text of the book it is indicated where new work has filled gaps in the original coverage.