"First, it is idealist. That is, it argues that the major visions of Revelation set out a general pattern of spiritual realities and spiritual war applicable throughout the period from Christ’s first coming until the Second Coming. " (Polythress reviews Beale)
In a sense, this form of Idealism is nothing more than a Historicist view, in that prophecy is seen as unfolding in successive centuries until the "final fulfillment." The difference is that a Historicist would tend to see total fulfillment in particular events leading up to the end, whereas this type of Idealist sees fulfillment in particular events as being only typological of the end.
This Futurist form of Idealism is classified as "Historical Idealism" at IdealistArchive.com.
That is to be distinguished from "Modern Idealism," which doesn't see "double" or "multiple" fulfillments at all... but sees all historical events as commonly revealing eternal/spiritual realities which find their fulfillment personally in Jesus Christ. A perfect example of this can be seen in Israel's "land promises" (see Israel's History a Type - From Beginning to End)
I am in complete agreement with Field as he exposes the weaknesses of "Historical Idealism" ; and, consequently, am in general agreement with the whole tenor of the article, as he never rebuts or refutes Modern Idealism.
So, in attempting to collar the Idealist view as "double fulfillment" or "multiple fulfillment" only works if that Idealist teaches that prophecy is to find its ultimate fulfillment in history... and not in Christ.
If prophecy was able to find fulfillment outside of Christ, then the Preterist or Futurist views would have more merit. But by limiting the intent of the Bible's imagery to historical events and natural things -- as natural Israel did, to their disappointment -- the true power and glory of the gospel is lost.
http://www.preteristarchive.com/IdealistArchive/critical/2007_field-david_idealism.html
