This short and accessible book introduces readers to the problems of
heresy, schism and dissidence over the last two millennia. The heresies
under discussion range from Gnosticism, influential in the early
Christian period, right through to modern sects.
The idea of a heretic conjures up many images, from the martyrs prepared
to die for their beliefs, through to sects with bizarre practices. This
book provides a remarkable insight into the fraught history of heresy,
showing how the Church came to insist on orthodoxy when threatened by
alternative ideals, exploring the social and political conditions under
which heretics were created, and how those involved were 'tested' and
punished, often by imprisonment and burning. Engaging written, A Brief
History of Heresy is enlivened throughout with fascinating examples of
individuals and movements.
- A short, accessible history of heresy.
- Spans the last two millennia, from the Gnostics through to modern
sects.
- Considers heresy in relation to ecclesial separatism, doctrinal
disagreement, church order, and basic metaphysics.
- Enlivened with intriguing examples of individuals and movements.
- Written by a leading academic in the field of Religious History.