Eunomius of Cyzicus and the Nicene Revolution

The study of 'Arianism' has proved one of the abiding fascinations and the abiding problems of early Christian studies in recent years. In this book Richard Vaggione addresses the definition of the doctrine and why it generated such intense social turmoil by examining the standpoint of one of 'Arianism's' principal supporters, Eunomius of Cyzicus. Eunomius' life is used as a framework within which to discuss changes in the doctrine of the Trinity. His origins, personal history, education, theology, and works are discussed in detail, as well as his unique philosophy of language. Dr Vaggione examines the relationship of Eunomius and his movement to the non-Nicene movement, and considers the meaning of the liturgical and other changes he made. He also traces the fortunes of the Eunomian following are traced through its final disappearance in the sixth or seventh century. One of the principal themes of the book is the nature of doctrinal change, especially the contribution of ordinary people, including those of women and ascetics. Richard Vaggione argues that the process of doctrinal change is not exclusively the task of the religious 'professional' but of the Christian community as a whole, involving a prolonged dialogue between nave and pulpit leading finally to a new doctrinal and devotional synthesis.