The book critically examines traditional views of hagiography, particularly the interpretation of ascetic desire as merely a repressed form of sexuality or a negative attitude towards the body. Through a thought-provoking analysis, it aims to redefine the understanding of asceticism, suggesting that these desires hold deeper significance beyond mere pathology. The work is both intellectually stimulating and significant in its challenge to established narratives, making it a vital contribution to theological studies.
Virginia Burrus Books
Virginia Burrus focuses her scholarship on ancient Christianity, exploring themes of gender, sexuality, and the body, alongside martyrdom and asceticism. Her research delves into ancient novels and hagiography, as well as the constructions of orthodoxy and heresy, and historical theologies. As a professor of religion at Syracuse University, Burrus brings extensive experience to her examination of early Christian history and thought.







`Begotten, Not Made'
- 256 pages
- 9 hours of reading
This book interprets fourth-century theological discourse as an incident in the history of masculine gender, arguing that Nicene trinitarian doctrine is a crucial site not only for theological innovation but also for reimagining and reproducing manhood in the late Roman empire. schovat popis
Part one: Points of departure. Memories; Three notes on method; Setting out, with Jerome -- Part two: Paphos. Poetry and place; Curating earthquakes; Life in ruins -- Part three: The mountain. Geographies of the remote; Entropic gardens; Literary cartographies -- Part four: Coda. An ocean of possibility.
Late Ancient Christianity
- 318 pages
- 12 hours of reading
Looking at the formation and evolution of Christianty, this title deals with some of the key issues of the Christian faith, and includes contributions from noted scholars in the field.
Exploring the intersection of ancient Christian theology and modern ecological perspectives, Virginia Burrus offers a thought-provoking examination of how early Christian texts can inform current environmental issues. The book challenges readers to reconsider traditional theological interpretations in light of ecological concerns, fostering a dialogue that bridges historical beliefs with contemporary ecological challenges. Through this unique lens, Burrus invites a reimagining of spiritual engagement with the natural world.
Saving Shame
- 208 pages
- 8 hours of reading
The Making of a Heretic
- 268 pages
- 10 hours of reading
Sexuální životy svatých. Erotika ve starověké hagiografii.
- 204 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Působivá série interpretací raně křesťanských legend potěší, ohromí a překvapí každého zájemce o erotismus svatých. Autorka se distancuje od tradičního výkladu životopisů starověkých světců jako něčeho antierotického nebo neerotického a odhaluje v nich vzkvétající ars erotica. Aniž by redukovaly erotiku starověké hagiografie na jediný vzorec, vytvářejí Sexuální životy svatých rámec pro širší historické, teologické a teoretické úvahy se zvláštním odkazem na dílo Michela Foucaulta, Georgese Batailla, Davida Halperina, Geoffreyho Harphama, Lea Bersaniho a Jeana Baudrillarda. Queer, S/M a postkoloniální teorie patří mezi současné diskursy, jež fascinujícím způsobem rezonují se starověkým uměním „svaté“ lásky, která si podle Burrusové dodnes udržela slibnou mobilitu, rozmanitost a časovou neohraničenost.
