The Democratization of Culture in Late Antiquity in the Roman Orient

Extract

[...] Christianity and Paganism from the 4th to the 8th century, It is written that 'the Council of Chalcedon reminded them in 451 that they should respect the authority of their bishops.' In fact, they had been engaging in uncontrolled waves of destruction for nearly a century. The orator Libanius made a very precise description of the radical groups operating in his hometown of Antioch. In this practice, they were very different from their Western counterparts, especially the Gauls, who had understood the interest of conversion through the spiritual aspect, like Martin, Bishop of Tours. [...]

[...] In fact, cultural diffusion was generated by the restoration of local cultures under the influence of Christian powers and thinkers. In addition, the Roman pagan religion saw part of its concept change, seeing the relationship with the mystery and the unknown be enlarged, with the scope that the Christian cult mysteries took on. Finally, the Roman religious structure was reorganized, particularly in a form close to the Christian ecclesiastical mesh. Thus, the Eastern Late Antiquity experienced a strong and intense cultural transition between Roman uniformity and an Eastern identity marked by local divergences, under the influence of Christianity. [...]

[...] The Christianization of the Mediterranean basin was progressive and began with the Near Eastern territories. Previously forbidden, Christianity was gradually introduced into all layers of Eastern society, particularly through the action of local bishops and monks. The historical cradle of this religion being the province of Judea, it seemed normal that this region would be the one where the impact was the most significant. Throughout the East, the population was affected by Christianity but also by various deviations, while also retaining pagan religious practices. [...]

[...] When Julian the Apostate became emperor, he advocated a large return to paganism, of which he was a great admirer. Between 361 and 363, he attempted to transpose the Christian structure onto late paganism. He wanted to reorganize almost entirely the levels of the pagan cult. Some even claim that he tried to found a pagan Church. Despite this, the brevity of his reign (twenty months) and the return of Christian emperors after him did not allow the realization of the imperial project. In addition, Christianity changed even the imperial title, which was abandoned by Gratian. [...]

[...] The political, economic, and cultural functioning took on a particular turn in the Near and Middle East. Within this regional area, differences, and even oppositions with the West were built and developed, leading to the resurgence of local identities and the emergence of an Eastern cultural identity. The creation of Christianity in the province of Judea and the sudden rise of this religion caused a cultural, philosophical, and artistic renewal, as well as a social and cult renewal. In the face of the growing influence of Christian theologians and thinkers, the cultural, religious, and linguistic currents were deeply transformed by a reciprocal acculturation. [...]