John Chrysostom remains, along with Augustine, one of the most prolific witnesses to the world of late antiquity. As priest of Antioch and bishop of Constantinople, he earned his reputation as an extraordinary preacher.

In this first unified study of emotions in Chrysostom's writings, Blake Leyerle examines the fourth-century preacher's understanding of anger, grief, and fear. These difficult emotions, she argues, were central to Chrysostom's program of ethical formation and were taught primarily through narrative means. In recounting the tales of scripture, Chrysostom consistently draws attention to the emotional tenor of these stories, highlighting biblical characters' moods, discussing their rational underpinnings, and tracing the outcomes of their reactions. By showing how assiduously Chrysostom aimed not only to allay but also to arouse strong feelings in his audiences to combat humanity's indifference and to inculcate zeal, Leyerle provides a fascinating portrait of late antiquity's foremost preacher.

About the Author
Blake Leyerle is Professor of Early Christianity in the Department of Theology and the Department of Classics at the University of Notre Dame.

Reviews
"[This book] should be read by anyone interested in the history of the emotions, the power of storytelling, the history of biblical exegesis, the history of Christian spirituality, church history or the world of late antique Byzantium." * Classical Review *

"Leyerle's book represents a convincing and definitive analysis of Chrysostom's thought about the emotions, and of the practical application of emotional and cognitive strategies in his programme of moral reform.... Accessible and a pleasure to read!"

* Journal of Early Christian History *
"Leyerle's analysis of Chrysostom's affective strategy, homiletic program, and philosophical antecedents yields profound insights. The book is a wonderful contribution to Chrysostomic studies and the history of emotions, showing how Christianity harnessed the power of narrative, rhetoric, and feeling to navigate the spiritual universe of the faithful in late antiquity." * Journal of Early Christian Studies *
"The present book is to be fully recommended to an academic audience of historians of late antiquity, theologians, and religious studies scholars, as well as to those who still uphold the educational value of uncomfortable situations." * ASDIWAL *



Book Information
ISBN 9780520345171
Author Blake Leyerle
Format Hardback
Page Count 228
Imprint University of California Press
Publisher University of California Press
Weight(grams) 454g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 23mm