I'm doing some studying of the major doctrines floating around the Christian world. I was wondering if anyone new of any good, understandable (As in, I won't need three or four dictionaries to know what is being said.) books that covered these topics? I don't need one book that covers them all, but just if you've read any that provide a good history and overview of anything relating to Calvinism, Arminianism, and Wesleyanism.

Thanks.

There's a documentary/DVD called "Amazing Grace" that I've heard covers Calvinism and Arminianism quite well.....I haven't seen it, though (want to but haven't). I think it defends/supports the Calvinist views. OhYeahItsMe or Rebecca could tell you more about it.

Yes, the Amazing Grace Documentary is EXCELLENTLY done. It's really really good and very informative. It takes you through the history of Calvinism and Arminianism and explains the different sides. I would highly recommend it.
I don't know a thing about Wesleyanism. Sorry!

For general info, try a Church History book, by Justo Gonzalez or Bruce Shelley

I know wikipedia isn't a great source, but it is a good place to start to give you an idea. I found it really useful when I had no idea what any of them were. It's also not heaps biased. I have no idea about any books if you were looking for more than just the basics though lol.

I think Wesley just took the Arminian view and expanded on it. For a person who goes to a Wesley church, I don't actually know a whole lot about it haha. I know how he started the Methodist church, but not so much the specifics of the Wesleyan view.

I will have a proper look through my church history notes to find some references for you

Last year I was at a Methodist school and knew the 4 cornerstones of Wesleyan thinking...but now i don't remember them entirely...I think it was called the Quadrilateral. Something like that Wesleyanism is based on the Bible, reason, tradition, and...something else. Wesley is very much associated with the Holiness movement, too.

But...none of that gives you any book-references. Sorry!

One thing I do remember about Wesley (wrote an exam essay on the Methodists!) is that he had an altered view of Calvinism. In fact, George Whitefield was the man who began the whole preaching-in-fields thing and invited Wesley to join him. The two then disagreed about pre-destination, and went their separate ways. So you can get Calvinist Methodists (those from Whitefield) and non-calvinist ones too!