Abstract: This chapter approaches the character and identity of the Oxford Movement from an assessment of how far it might be considered a ‘revival’. The need for reform-revival in the early 19th century Anglican Church was a topic much under discussion both at the time and continues being a subject of debate in recent historiography. The present study helps to define the distinctive character of the Movement and to clarify its position in respect to other parties within the Church of England. From this survey it becomes apparent that the Tractarians saw the ‘revival’ as emerging from an ethos wholly different from that which had so far been prevalent.

Keywords: church crisis, church revival, Oxford Movement, Tractarianism, High Church, Evangelicals, Anglican theology, Anglican spirituality,