Writings Against Christians

Writings Against Christians presents a unique compilation that maps the intellectual and rhetorical opposition to Christianity from antiquity. This anthology encompasses a range of literary styles, from historical analysis to philosophical disputation, and it situates itself within a rich literary and historical context. It highlights the diversity and significance of perspectives from notable figures of the ancient world, offering readers a multifaceted understanding of the criticisms leveled against early Christianity. The inclusion of works by both philosophers and historians allows for a comprehensive exploration of the arguments and sentiments of Christianity's early critics, providing invaluable insights into the complexities of religious discourse during this era. The contributors to Writings Against Christians — Thomas Taylor, Flavius Josephus, Porphyry, Tacitus, Diodorus of Sicily, Celsus, and Emperor Julian — represent a diverse array of backgrounds, from philosophers to historians to rulers, each contributing their distinctive perspective on Christianity. Their collective works demonstrate the historical and cultural breadth of pagan criticism, reflecting broader literary and philosophical movements of their time. This collection not only delineates the contours of ancient religious debate but also illustrates how these varied voices contribute to our understanding of early Christian and pagan dynamics. Writings Against Christians is essential reading for scholars, students, and general readers interested in the intersections of religion, philosophy, and history. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide spectrum of ancient critiques of Christianity, providing a rich tapestry of thought that challenges and enriches our understanding of early religious discourse. The anthology encourages readers to engage with the presented perspectives, fostering a deeper appreciation of the historical and intellectual contexts from which these criticisms arose. This collection serves as a critical resource for anyone seeking to delve into the complexity of religious dialogues in the ancient world, offering insightful analyses and challenging premises that stimulate further reflection and study.

Thomas Taylor, the prolific writer and translator, is not traditionally associated with a book entitled 'Writings Against Christians', and such a work does not align well with his known bibliographic canon. Most acclaimed for his translations of Plato, Aristotle, and other ancient philosophers into English, Taylor (1758–1835) is often referred to as the 'English Platonist'. His scholarly endeavors were dedicated to the exposition and revival of Platonism and Neoplatonism, making these philosophic works accessible to the English-speaking world. Taylor's translations and original writings, including 'The Platonic philosopher's creed' (1792) and 'The Theoretic Arithmetic of the Pythagoreans' (1816), exhibit his dedication to the esoteric and metaphysical currents of ancient thought. With a writing style characterized by its formality and erudition, Taylor sought not only to translate but also to preserve the purity and complexity of ancient philosophy. His work greatly influenced the Romantic poets and has been credited with contributing to a broader nineteenth-century resurgence of interest in classical philosophy. There are no indications in the scholarly record of Taylor having authored a book specifically targeting the Christian faith. Given Taylor's philosophical inclinations, it would perhaps be out of character for him to pen a work largely or solely devoted to polemics against Christianity.