Christianization and Communication in Late Antiquity: John Chrysostom and his Congregation in Antioch
Cambridge University Press, 10/19/2006
EAN 9780521860406, ISBN10: 0521860407
Hardcover, 212 pages, 22.8 x 15.2 x 2.1 cm
Language: English
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.
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.
Review of the hardback: 'Maxwell's book provides a most welcome focus on Chrysostom as preacher in Antioch and makes a valuable contribution to understanding the interaction between the preacher and his diverse audience in the Syrian metropolis in the 380s and 390s. ... The book is well organized and clearly written, fitting of the skill Chrysostom himself developed in communicating with a diverse audience. ... This book contributes admirably to providing an alternative and practical portrait of Christian life in the late fourth century ...' Bryn Mawr Classical Review