Zusammenfassung First published between 1776 and 1788, Gibbon's magnum opus is a magisterial account of the relationship between Roman imperialism and Christianity, spanning the period from the first century CE to the fall of Constantinople. Reissued here is J. B. Bury's authoritative seven-volume edition of 1896-1900.

Autorentext

Edward Gibbon, born on May 8, 1737, in Putney, Surrey, England, was a renowned historian and scholar. Despite a frail childhood marked by frequent illnesses, he developed a voracious appetite for reading, which laid the foundation for his future intellectual pursuits. In 1752, Gibbon enrolled at Magdalen College, Oxford, but found the academic environment uninspiring, leading to his temporary conversion to Roman Catholicism. His father subsequently sent him to Lausanne, Switzerland, where he reconverted to Protestantism and immersed himself in rigorous studies under the guidance of a Calvinist pastor. Gibbon's magnum opus, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, was published in six volumes between 1776 and 1788. This monumental work is celebrated for its critical use of primary sources and its eloquent prose, offering a comprehensive analysis of the factors leading to the fall of the Roman Empire.

Klappentext

The pre-eminent historian of his day, Edward Gibbon (1737-94) produced his magnum opus in six volumes between 1776 and 1788. Reissued here is the authoritative seven-volume edition prepared by J. B. Bury (1861-1927) between 1896 and 1900. Immediately and widely acclaimed, Gibbon's work remains justly famous for its magisterial account of Roman imperialism and Christianity from the first century CE through to the fall of Constantinople and beyond. Innovative in its use of primary sources and notable for its tone of religious scepticism, this epic narrative stands as a masterpiece of English literature and historical scholarship. Volume 2 seeks to explain the rise of Christianity, focusing on its emergence from and early interactions with Judaism, and the nature of Christian belief and worship. It also examines the founding of Constantinople and the pagan reign of Julian.

Inhalt

15. The progress of the Christian religion; 16. The conduct of the Roman government towards the Christians; 17. Foundation of Constantinople; 18. Character of Constantine; 19. Constantius sole emperor; 20. The motives, progress, and effects of the conversion of Constantine; 21. Persecution of heresy; 22. Julian is declared emperor by the legions of Gaul; 23. The religion of Julian; 24. Residence of Julian at Antioch.