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Document Details : Title: Between Fame and Infamy Subtitle: Epiphanius of Salamis the Heresiologist on 'Perfection and Imperfection' Author(s): VERHEYDEN, Joseph Journal: Ephemerides Theologicae Lovanienses Volume: 100 Issue: 3-4 Date: 2024 Pages: 525-551 DOI: 10.2143/ETL.100.3.3293825 Abstract : Epiphanius is the most renowned heresiologist of the early Church, with his Panarion being the most comprehensive catalogue of ancient Christian (and some pre-Christian) movements. This paper, conceived with a touch of irony, critically examines various ways in which the pursuit of 'perfection' – at the levels of the author, his work, and the claims of several heresies he presents – are threatened, invalidated, or nuanced. The paper consists of four parts. The first part illustrates how Epiphanius’ reputation has fluctuated in scholarly literature, from hero to nitwit and back again. The second part discusses the rationale behind Epiphanius’ decision to organise his material into 80 chapters. The third part provides a critical evaluation of his presentation of groups whose members explicitly claimed to be 'perfect'. The final part surveys the guidelines that have shaped Epiphanius’ claims and aims in compiling his catalogue of early Christian heresiology. |
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