Rich and the Pure: Philanthropy and the Making of Christian Society in Early Byzantium

The Byzantine Empire was the birthplace of history's first complex Christian society, united by the Christianized ideal of philanthrōpia. Daniel Caner's book explores how philanthropy shaped proper social relations among the rich, poor, and "the pure" and how it evolved over three centuries, revealing the concerns of Early Byzantium's people and hierarchical relationships.

Format: Hardback
Length: 440 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2021
Publisher: University of California Press

As the Roman Empire crumbled in western Europe, its prosperity shifted decisively eastward, to what is now known as the Byzantine Empire. Here emerged history's first truly affluent, multifaceted Christian society. One of the ideals used to unite the diverse millions of people inhabiting this vast realm was the Christianized ideal of philanthropy. In this sweeping cultural and social history, Daniel Caner demonstrates how philanthropy required living up to Jesus' injunction to "Give to all who ask of you," by offering mercy and/or material aid to every human being, regardless of their origin or status.

Caner illustrates how Christian philanthropy became articulated through distinct religious ideals of giving that helped define proper social relations among the rich, the poor, and "the pure" (Christian holy people), resulting in new and enduring social expectations. In tracing the evolution of Christian giving over three centuries, he brings to the fore the concerns of the peoples of Early Byzantium, from the countryside to the lower levels of urban society to the imperial elites, as well as the hierarchical relationships that arose among them.

The Rich and the Pure offers nothing less than a portrait of the whole of early Byzantine society.

Weight: 774g
Dimension: 162 x 236 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520381582