Description: This collection of seventeen patristic studies is dedicated to Thomas Halton in recognition of his signal services to the field as editor, bibliographer, and interpreter. The contributors are a distinguished and ecumenical group of scholars of diverse interests and approaches. Divided into five main subdivisions -- Exegesis, Rhetoric, Anthropology: Modern and Ancient, Augustine, and the Transmission of Texts and Learning -- this volume offers much insight into the development and the current practice of research in the fields of Patristic and Late Antique Studies.

The first section deals with elements of the theory and practice of exegesis from the second through the fifth century and the use of patristic commentaries in the early medieval period; each chapter highlights the central role attributed to traditional Christian belief and moral values in the interpretation of the sacred text. The second section offers commentary and analysis of addresses delivered by Christian bishops of the Greek East: Lenten discourse, festal homilies, a semi-juridic apologia. The third section studies ancient concepts of the individual and social identity in the light modern sociological and anthropological theory; the great influence of the social sciences upon recent developments in Late Antique Studies is apparent throughout the section. The fourth examines aspects of Augustine's roles as Christian philosopher and Catholic churchman. The final section evaluates the transmission, transformation, and adaptation to new purposes of the cultural achievements of antiquity, both pagan and Christian, in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

This volume will be of particular interest to students of theology,church history, and Early Christian Studies. Nine papers deal predominantly with Greek, and eight with Latin, sources. Most of the ancient passages are accompanied by translation.

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