Biblical and Theological Studies Faculty Works

Recovering a “Lost” author: Marcion of Smyrna

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The Martyrdom of Polycarp, traditionally treated as an anonymous document, is not: it was composed by Marcion of Smyrna. A writer of no small ability, he argues for a particular view of martyrdom on the basis of a sophisticated interpretation of the gospel narrative; portrays Polycarp as the embodiment of both Christian and Greco-Roman virtues and values; and subverts Roman claims to power even as he affirms Christian claims of divine sovereignty. His accomplishments earn him a spot on the roster of second century Christian authors. © Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009.

Department(s)

Biblical and Theological Studies

Publication Title

Horizons in Biblical Theology

Volume

31

Issue

2

First Page

111

Last Page

122

Publication Date

1-1-2009

DOI

10.1163/019590809X12553238843023

ISSN

01959085

E-ISSN

18712207

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