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Simplicity and Humility in Late Antique Christian Thought

Elites and the Challenges of Apostolic Life

Jaclyn L. Maxwell (Ohio University)

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Hardback

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English
Cambridge University Press
25 March 2021
The social values of upper-class Christians in Late Antiquity often contrasted with the modest backgrounds of their religion's founders – the apostles – and the virtues they exemplified. Drawing on examples from the Cappadocian Fathers, John Chrysostom, and other late antique authors, this book examines attitudes toward the apostles' status as manual workers and their virtues of simplicity and humility. Due to the strong connection between these traits and low socioeconomic status, late antique bishops often allowed their own high standing to influence how they understood these matters. The virtues of simplicity and humility had been a natural fit for tentmakers and fishermen, but posed a significant challenge to Christians born into the elite and trained in prestigious schools. This volume examines the socioeconomic implications of Christianity in the Roman Empire by considering how the first wave of powerful, upper-class church leaders interpreted the socially radical elements of their religion.

By:  
Imprint:   Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication:   United Kingdom
Dimensions:   Height: 235mm,  Width: 158mm,  Spine: 15mm
Weight:   450g
ISBN:   9781108832267
ISBN 10:   1108832261
Pages:   216
Publication Date:  
Audience:   Professional and scholarly ,  Undergraduate
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active

Jaclyn L. Maxwell is Associate Professor of History and Classics/Religious Studies at Ohio University. She is the author of Christianization and Communication in Late Antiquity: John Chrysostom and his Congregation in Antioch (Cambridge, 2006) and has received fellowships from Dumbarton Oaks and the American Council of Learned Societies.

Reviews for Simplicity and Humility in Late Antique Christian Thought: Elites and the Challenges of Apostolic Life

'Maxwell's book draws attention to many interesting texts and developments and provides insightful interpretations, which makes it an enjoyable and fruitful read. Maxwell interprets a wide variety of texts from different genres and contexts and makes useful and interesting observations.' Florian Zacher, Bryn Mawr Classical Review


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