Eschatology in Antiquity: Forms and Functions

This collection of essays explores the rhetoric and practices surrounding views on life after death and the end of the world in a wide range of societies from Ancient Mesopotamia to the Byzantine era,with a focus on the historical contexts,details,functions,and impact of eschatological ideas and imagery in ancient texts and material culture. It is aimed at readers from a wide range of academic disciplines and non-specialists,and includes cross-referencing,high-quality illustrations,and extensive indexing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 630 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection of essays delves into the intricate rhetoric and practices surrounding beliefs about life after death and the ultimate fate of the world, encompassing a wide range of societies from Ancient Mesopotamia to the Byzantine era. Spanning 42 essays written by esteemed scholars in each respective field, the book offers a profound exploration of the diverse expressions and purposes of eschatological understanding. By expanding the disciplinary scope while maintaining a clear focus on the Mediterranean region, readers are granted a unique opportunity to observe similarities, differences, and the exchange of ideas across antiquity. Cross-referencing, high-quality illustrations, and an extensive index further enhance the book's value as a valuable resource on a topic of contemporary interest and relevance.

Eschatology in Antiquity is designed to appeal to a diverse audience, including scholars from various academic disciplines as well as non-specialists such as seminary students and religious leaders. The primary target audience will consist of researchers specializing in areas such as Biblical Studies, Classics and Ancient History, Ancient Philosophy, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Art History, Late Antiquity, Byzantine Studies, and Cultural Studies. Special care has been taken to ensure that the essays are accessible to undergraduates and individuals without extensive specialist knowledge in the respective fields.

The essays in this collection explore a wide array of topics, including the individual's fate after death, apocalyptic speculation, and hopes for cosmological renewal. They examine the eschatological beliefs and practices of ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The authors analyze the historical contexts, details, functions, and impacts of eschatological ideas and imagery in ancient texts, material culture, and religious practices. They also explore the ways in which eschatological concepts have been interpreted and reinterpreted over time, and how they have influenced social, political, and cultural developments.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between eschatology and other religious and cultural beliefs. The essays examine how eschatological ideas intersect with concepts such as divinity, salvation, sin, redemption, and the afterlife. They also explore how eschatological beliefs have been used to justify political ideologies, social structures, and cultural practices. For example, some authors argue that eschatological beliefs played a significant role in the formation of ancient empires, while others suggest that they were used to justify social hierarch.

Another important theme of the book is the role of imagination and creativity in shaping eschatological ideas and practices. The essays examine how eschatological imagery and symbolism have been used to convey complex ideas and emotions, and how they have been adapted and transformed over time. They also explore how eschatological ideas have been used to inspire artistic and literary works, and how they have been incorporated into popular culture. For example, some authors argue that eschatological imagery has been used to create a sense of awe and wonder, while others suggest that it has been used to promote fear and anxiety.

The essays in this collection offer a wealth of insights into the complex and multifaceted world of eschatology in antiquity. They provide a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in the history, philosophy, and cultural studies of religion and society. The book will also be of interest to non-specialists who are curious about the beliefs and practices surrounding life after death and the end of the world. By broadening the disciplinary scope and maintaining a clear focus on the Mediterranean region, the authors have created a comprehensive and accessible resource that will be of great value to a wide range of readers.

Weight: 1442g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138208315