An Embodied Reading of the Shepherd of Hermas: The Book of Visions and Its Role in Moral Formation

The Shepherd of Hermas is an ancient Christian work from a major urban center, popular in the early centuries as a catechetical text for moral formation. This book uses cognitive literary theory, specifically enactive reading, to investigate why it has failed to receive the same reception by modern scholars. The study focuses on the Book of Visions, which narrates Hermas' visionary experiences in first-person voice, and argues that enactive reading can help generate immersive experiences and explain the success and appeal of the Book of Visions among ancient readers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2023
Publisher: Equinox Publishing Ltd

The Shepherd of Hermas, a remarkable Christian work dating back to the 70-150 CE era, stands as one of the oldest literary creations from a significant urban center. While the majority of the manuscript evidence of this text is concentrated in North Africa, it has maintained a longstanding connection with the city of Rome. Comprising three distinct sections: the Book of Visions, the Mandates, and the Similitudes, the Shepherd has enjoyed immense popularity throughout its early centuries as a catechetical text instrumental in moral formation. Its manuscript evidence during this period far outstripped that of the Gospels, attesting to its widespread influence.

In an attempt to understand why a work that once resonated deeply with readers in antiquity has failed to receive the same level of scholarly attention in modern times, this book employs cognitive literary theory, specifically the enactive reading approach. The study focuses on the first section of the Shepherd, known as the Book of Visions, which presents Hermas's visionary experiences in a first-person narrative. Through the lens of enactive reading, the book argues that this approach can foster immersive encounters with Hermas's visions and provide insights into the enduring success and appeal of the Book of Visions among ancient readers.

Cognitive approaches also highlight how modern scholars, trained to read apocalypses against the grain in search of historical or theological information, may overlook or undervalue the very elements that made apocalypses engaging and entertaining to a broad range of ancient readers and hearers. By adopting an enactive reading approach, scholars can recapture the essence of these texts and appreciate their historical and cultural significance.

In conclusion, The Shepherd of Hermas, with its rich tapestry of visionary experiences and its enduring popularity in antiquity, presents a compelling case study for exploring the power of cognitive literary theory. By employing enactive reading, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of this ancient work and its significance in shaping Christian thought and literature.

Weight: 464g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800503281