Theology and poetry in early Byzantium : the Kontakia of Romanos the Melodist / Sarah Gador-Whyte.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Gador-Whyte, Sarah, 1983- author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Romanus, Melodus, Saint, active 6th century. Kontakia.

Romanus.

Theology in literature.

Christianity in literature.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (x, 237 pages) : digital, PDF file(s).

Place of Publication:

Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2017.

Summary:

Theology and Poetry in Early Byzantium examines the kontakia and thought-world of Romanos the Melodist, the sixth-century hymnographer whose vibrant and engaging compositions had a far-reaching influence in the history of Byzantine liturgy. His compositions bring biblical narratives to life through dialogue, encourage a level of participation unparalleled in homiletics and push the boundaries of liturgical expression of theology. This book provides an original analysis of Romanos' poetry, drawing attention to the coherence of his theology and the performative nature of his rhetoric. The main theological themes which emerge encourage the congregation to enact the life of Christ and anticipate the new creation: restoration of humanity to God, re-creation in the incarnation and life of Christ, and liturgical participation and transformation in that life. By analysing the rhetorical performance of theology in the kontakia, the book provides new insights into religious practice in late antiquity.

Contents:

On the passion of Christ

The second Adam: a typology of salvation

The second creation: a new reality for Christians

The second coming: a theology of time and liturgy

On the Resurrection IV: conclusions and beyond.

Notes:

Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 25 May 2017).

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

1-108-20679-4

1-108-21489-4

1-108-21624-2

1-316-49251-6

1-108-21759-1

1-108-22434-2

1-108-21894-6