Virgin Mary in Byzantium, c.400-1000

The Virgin Mary held a significant place in Byzantium, and this book explores how she was portrayed in liturgical texts during the first six centuries of Byzantine history. It highlights the different ways in which writers adapted their messages for different audiences, portraying Mary as a defender of the imperial city, a virginal Mother of God, and an ascetic disciple of Christ. Dr. Cunningham's study makes a significant contribution to the history of Christianity.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Virgin Mary assumed a paramount position of significance in Byzantium, and this book delves into her portrayal in liturgical texts during the initial six centuries of Byzantine history. By focusing on three primary literary genres that celebrated this revered figure, it sheds light on the diverse ways in which writers tailored their messages to cater to different audiences. Mary is depicted in various ways, including as the protector of the imperial city, Constantinople, the virginal Mother of God, and an ascetic disciple of Christ. Preachers, hymnographers, and hagiographers employed rhetorical strategies to elevate Mary's influential status within Eastern Christian society, portraying her as a virgin and mother, a warrior and ascetic, a human and a semi-divine being. These paradoxical statements were grounded in the fundamental mystery that Mary embodied: she was the mother of Christ, the Word of God, who provided him with the human nature he assumed during his incarnation. Dr. Cunningham's comprehensive study makes a substantial contribution to the history of Christianity.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108845694
Edition number: New ed