Julian and Christianity: Revisiting the Constantinian Revolution

David Neal Greenwood's book "Julian and Christianity" explores the life and legacy of the Roman emperor Julian, focusing on his relationship with Christianity as both a ruler and an anti-Christian polemicist. Greenwood's close reading of Oration 7 highlights Julian's extensive anti-Christian religious program and his use of Christianity for his own religious framework. The book combines ancient history, Neoplatonist philosophy, and patristic theology to create a thoughtful and immersive biography of Julian.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2021
Publisher: Cornell University Press

The Roman emperor Julian is a captivating figure who continues to captivate the attention of scholars and enthusiasts alike. David Neal Greenwood's book, "Julian and Christianity," delves into the life and legacy of this remarkable ruler, offering a unique perspective on his role as the last pagan emperor and his anti-Christian rhetoric.

This comprehensive examination of Julian's life revolves around his drive and status as a ruler. Greenwood adeptly outlines the dramatic impact of Julian's short-lived regime on the course of history, with a particular emphasis on his complex relationship with Christianity.

Julian's reception throughout history has been varied, encompassing both adulation and vitriol, as well as controversies and rumors that question his sanity and passive ruling. However, his connections to Christianity are deeply rooted in his regime's open hostility, which Greenwood meticulously explores in his analysis of Oration 7: To the Cynic Heracleios.

Greenwood's close reading of this Oration highlights not only Julian's extensive anti-Christian religious program and his determined rejection of Christianity but also his brilliant and calculated use of the same religion. As Greenwood emphasizes in "Julian and Christianity," these attributes were inextricably tied to Julian's relationship with Christianity—and how he appropriated certain theological elements from the religion for his own religious framework, from texts to deities.

Through his nuanced and detailed readings of Julian's writings, Greenwood brings together ancient history, Neoplatonist philosophy, and patristic theology to create an exceptional and thoughtful biography of the great Roman leader. As a result, "Julian and Christianity" offers a deeply immersive look at Julian's life, considering his multifaceted rule and the deliberate maneuvers he made on behalf of political ascendancy.

In conclusion, "Julian and Christianity" is a valuable contribution to the study of ancient history and the complex relationship between religion and politics. Greenwood's meticulous research and thoughtful analysis provide a fresh perspective on Julian's life and legacy, shedding light on his role as a historical figure who continues to fascinate and intrigue us.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501755477