Christianization and Communication in Late Antiquity
John Chrysostom and his Congregation in Antioch

This book studies the role of ordinary people in the 'Christianization' of the Roman Empire.

Jaclyn L. Maxwell (Author)

9780521117715, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 30 July 2009

212 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.2 cm, 0.32 kg

'[Maxwell's] book provides a very useful and stimulating step towards understanding preaching as a form of communication …' Journal of Hellenic Studies

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.

Subject Areas: General & world history [HBG]