The Village in Antiquity and the Rise of Early Christianity

This book provides a comprehensive geographical and thematic overview of the village in an antiquity and its role in the rise of Christianity, with a focus on the ancient near east, mainland and Isthmian Greece, Asia Minor, and the Italian Peninsula.

Format: Hardback
Length: 472 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A comprehensive geographical and thematic exploration of an ancient village and its pivotal role in the emergence of Christianity. The book commences with a thought-provoking introduction by Thomas Robinson, delving into the intricate relationship between the village and the city during the early Christian era. Alan Cadwallader then presents a methodological framework for future New Testament studies on this captivating topic, utilizing a series of case studies to illustrate the methodological challenges encountered.

Subsequently, contributors delve into three distinct aspects of village life across various geographical regions. Through a series of in-depth studies authored by experts in their respective disciplines, they examine the ancient near east (Egypt and Israel), mainland and Isthmian Greece, Asia Minor, and the Italian Peninsula. This geographical focus illuminates the villages linked to the biblical cities (Israel; Corinth; Galatia; Ephesus; Philippi; Thessalonica; Rome), offering valuable insights into the rural character of these churches.

A concluding section of thematic studies explores central themes of local village life, encompassing indigenous and imperial cults, funeral culture, and agricultural and economic practices. This comprehensive examination provides a rich tapestry of insights into the diverse and complex tapestry of village life during the ancient era.

Dimension: 244 x 169 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780567695956