In Search of Truth in the Pseudo-Clementine Homilies: New Approaches to a Philosophical and Rhetorical Novel of Late Antiquity

The contributors of this volume set out to explore some new approaches to the fourth-century Christian novel traditionally known as the Pseudo-Clementine Homilies or Klementia. They raise and answer questions about this narrative by approaching it as an original rhetorical, and philosophical novel. The volume seeks to improve understanding of this text as a late antique novel with its own textual unity. It pays attention both to its literary qualities as well as to the role of rhetorical education, the reception of Sophistic traditions, and ancient philosophy. It includes theological reflections and discusses the role of the Homilistic author, his skills in the field of paideia, and his reflections on truth. In this way, the contributors offer new insights into the Pseudo-Clementine Homilies as a unique novel from late antique Syria.