The Narrative Shape of Emotion in the Preaching of John Chrysostom

by Blake Leyerle

Overview

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.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780520345171
Publisher:	University of California Press
Publication date:	12/15/2020
Series:	Christianity in Late Antiquity , #10
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	228
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.90(d)

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. 

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Introduction. The Narrative Shape of Emotion
Chrysostom's Program
Plan of the Study

1. Anger
The Origin of Rage
Quelling Anger
Anger’s Imperative
Conclusion 
Inscribing the Lesson: David and Saul
2. Grief
The Sadness of Things
Envy, Malice, and Indignation Grieving over the Dead, the Sick, and the Barren
Lamenting Personal Debility
Mourning Sin
Conclusion
A Case Study in Surmounting Sadness: Job
3. Fear
The Disciplinary Force of Fear
Fear as a Bridle
Fear as a Goad The Social Benefits of Fear 
Fear as a Deliberative State 
Conclusion
The Advantages of Fear: Cain
4. Chrysostom's Goal: Stimulating Zeal
Rhathymia
Arousing Aversion
Awe 
Shame 
Disgust Inspiring Emulation
Conclusion 
Imitating Zeal: The Samaritan Woman 
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

"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

"[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 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

"Both scholars and practitioners would find this study useful. Scholars will appreciate Leyerle’s examination of narrative, literary tropes, and word choice in Chrysostom’s work. Preachers will benefit from a close examination of the dynamics of the preaching style and exegetical method."

Reading Religion

"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