Why did early Christian authors interpret the biblical theophany narratives as manifestations of Christ? And how was this interpretation challenged by Augustine? This book explores the theological underpinnings of ancient Christian theophany interpretation, tracing its development into two major exegetical strands. Patristic exegesis of the theophanies involved polemic and the formation of Christian identity, the relationship between vision and spiritual transformation, and theological claims about knowing God through creation. While the christological interpretation developed within particular early Christian beliefs and logic, Augustine challenged it using similar logic and foundational beliefs. Through Augustine's reconfigured reading, one may see the critical and creative capacity of patristic authors to adapt, challenge, and transform exegetical traditions.

Augustine and History relates history to Augustine's thoughts, life, and writings in several distinct, but connected, ways. The essays place Augustine in his historical context, analyze his own theory and practice of historiography, and examine his impact on later historians and controversies. Augustine's intellect and influence are elaborated in contexts as disparate as the Fall of Rome, debates on the death penalty, and even the reactions to 9/11. This collection of scholarly essays is excellent for a wide-ranging academic audience.

Apocalyptic thought pervaded Augustine s time even more than our own, where it still resurfaces with frequency and intensity. Augustine s handling of this topic captures him at the height of his powers, exercising his substantial skills at Biblical exegesis and rhetoric, as well as his abilities to deal with the social upheaval that followed on the Fall of Rome in 410. The essays in this book look at Augustine s thought on apocalyptic, as well as trace Augustine s influence through the Middle Ages and into modern times.

Augustine and History relates history to Augustine's thoughts, life, and writings in several distinct, but connected, ways. The essays place Augustine in his historical context, analyze his own theory and practice of historiography, and examine his impact on later historians and controversies. Augustine's intellect and influence are elaborated in contexts as disparate as the Fall of Rome, debates on the death penalty, and even the reactions to 9/11. This collection of scholarly essays is excellent for a wide-ranging academic audience.