L’Hagiographie et l’Iconoclasme Byzantin

The period of Byzantine Iconoclasm remains in many ways a 'Dark Age'. With this volume Marie-France Auzépy continues her fundamental re-examination of one of the key sources for the time, the Life of Stephen the Younger. Previously in this series she has published a new edition, translation and commentary on the text; the present work aims to establish a solid methodology for reading a hagiographical text as a historical source, and includes a systematic literary analysis to illuminate how the author treated his subject matter. Amongst other conclusions, this study shows how the historical presentation of the period was consciously shaped by the patriarchate of Constantinople in the years 787-815, in order to affirm the independence of the Church from imperial power.

’...Auzépy’s conclusions are significant...no future study of Iconoclasm should ignore her work.’ Speculum (April 2002) '...explores as never before the historiography of the first period of iconoclasm, not only making clear what we knew already...but also with great learning exploring ways, both literary and historical, in which one of our most important sources for eighth-century Byzantium can be made to bring light to bear on a period in which much must remain obscure.' Journal of Theological Studies '... magisterial... Auzépy’s persuasive findings deepen Byzantinists' grasp of iconoclasm's complex history and offer a rich case study for bridging hagiography and historiography. No research library should be without this volume or Auzépy’s critical edition (with French translation, in the same series).' Religious Studies Review '... Auzépy's monographs are a great step forward.' Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies 'Marie-France Auzépy's book is iconoclastic, one has to admit, but it paints a renewed picture of the Empire and the Church over a good three quarter of a century (730-809). Her historical approach is first rate. Moreover, the demonstration is exciting: there is nothing more edifying than hagiography by such a pen.' Le Moyen Age

Marie-France Auzépy