Christianization and Communication in Late Antiquity
Christianization and Communication in Late Antiquity
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How did ordinary people and Church authorities communicate with each other in late antiquity and how did this interaction affect the processes of Christianization in the Roman Empire? By studying the relationship between the preacher and his congregation within the context of classical, urban traditions of public speaking, this book explains some of the reasons for the popularity of Christian sermons during the period. Its focus on John Chrysostom's sermons allows us to see how an educated church leader responded to and was influenced by a congregation of ordinary Christians. As a preacher in Antioch, Chrysostom took great care to convey his lessons to his congregation, which included a broad cross-section of society. Because of this, his sermons provide a fascinating view into the variety of beliefs held by the laity, demonstrating that many people could be actively engaged in their religion while disagreeing with their preacher.
- Offers a new and important approach to the 'Christianization' of the Roman Empire in late antiquity
- Examines John Chrysostom's sermons in their wider social context
- Integrates the study of early Christian sermons into the traditions of urban, public speaking in the Roman world
Reviews & endorsements
"...the author offers a thougtful and informative exploration of the primary focus that also offers delightful sidelights into the interaction between a strong and eloquent preacher and his often opinionated congregation as they wrestle not only with theological matters, but also such practical (yet symbolically rich) concerns as how best (or even whether) to celebrate Kalends, weddings, and funerals."
Religious Studies Review
Product details
November 2006Adobe eBook Reader
9780511247910
0 pages
0kg
This ISBN is for an eBook version which is distributed on our behalf by a third party.
Table of Contents
- Acknowledgements
- List of abbreviations
- Introduction
- 1. Philosophical preaching in the Roman world
- 2. Rhetoric and society: contexts of public speaking in late antique Antioch
- 3. John Chrysostom's congregation in Antioch
- 4. Teaching to the converted: John Chrysostom's pedagogy
- 5. Practical knowledge and religious life
- 6. Habits and the Christianization of daily life
- Conclusions
- Bibliography
- Index.
