Publisher's Synopsis
The Seven Books of Arnobius Adversus Gentes is a classic work of Christian literature, written by Arnobius of Sicca in the 4th century AD. This book is a defense of Christianity against the pagan religions of the Roman Empire, and it is divided into seven books, each of which addresses a different aspect of the pagan worldview. In Book 1, Arnobius argues that the gods of the pagans are not real and that their worship is based on superstition. In Book 2, he discusses the origins of the pagan gods and shows that they are based on human inventions. Book 3 focuses on the immorality of pagan religion and its harmful effects on society. Book 4 is a detailed critique of the pagan philosophers, including Plato, Aristotle, and the Stoics. Arnobius argues that their teachings are flawed and that they cannot provide a true understanding of the world. In Book 5, he discusses the nature of God and shows that the Christian God is the only true deity. Book 6 is a defense of the Christian doctrine of the resurrection, while Book 7 is a critique of the pagan belief in the afterlife. Throughout the book, Arnobius uses a variety of rhetorical techniques to persuade his readers, including irony, sarcasm, and humor. The Seven Books of Arnobius Adversus Gentes is an important work of early Christian apologetics, and it provides valuable insights into the religious and philosophical debates of the late Roman Empire. This edition, translated by H. J. Bryce and E. H. Gifford, includes an introduction and notes that provide historical and literary context for Arnobius's arguments.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.