The idea that Christianity started as a clandestine movement among the poor is a widely accepted notion. Yet it is one of many myths that must be discarded if we are to understand just how a tiny messianic movement on the edge of the Roman Empire became the dominant faith of Western civilization. In a fast-paced; highly readable book that addresses beliefs as well as historical facts; Rodney Stark brings a sociologist's perspective to bear on the puzzle behind the success of early Christianity. He comes equipped not only with the logic and methods of social science but also with insights gathered firsthand into why people convert and how new religious groups recruit members. He digs deep into the historical evidence on many issues--such as the social background of converts; the mission to the Jews; the status of women in the church; the role of martyrdom--to provide a vivid and unconventional account of early Christianity. The author plots the most plausible curve of Christian growth from the year 40 to 300. By the time of Constantine; Christianity had become a considerable force; with growth patterns very similar to those of modern-day successful religious movements. An unusual number of Christian converts; for example; came from the educated; cosmopolitan classes. Because it offered a new perspective on familiar concepts and was not linked to ethnicity; Christianity had a large following among persons seeking to assimilate into the dominant culture; mainly Hellenized Jews. The oversupply of women in Christian communities--due partly to the respect and protection they received--led to intermarriages with pagans; hence more conversions; and to a high fertility rate. Stark points out; too; the role played by selflessness and faith. Amidst the epidemics; fires; and other disasters that beleaguered Greco-Roman cities; Christian communities were a stronghold of mutual aid; which resulted in a survival rate far greater than that of the pagans. In the meantime; voluntary martyrdom; especially a generation after the death of Christ; reinforced the commitment of the Christian rank and file. What Stark ultimately offers is a multifaceted portrait of early Christianity; one that appeals to practical reasoning; historical curiosity; and personal reflection.
#1340632 in Books Princeton University Press 1994-04-04 1994-04-24Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.50 x .63 x 5.50l; .65 #File Name: 0691001049256 pages
Review
11 of 12 people found the following review helpful. A great book to readBy eitan bachmatDetienne's book is a wonderfull and thought provoking book.he presents a structuralist analysis of the myth of Adonis.It is very hard to provide convincing structuralist interpretations to myths and it seems that in structuralismthe journey is at least as important as the end result(see most of the work of Levi Strauss). However; in this case Detienne's analysis is rather compeling and provides the reader with amazing insights into greek thought about food; perfumes;sex and all the other good things in life. If you wish to read just one structuralist work to get a feeling for this fascinating and highly non trivial mode of analysis of human thought; I would recommend this book
