Western Civilization I
Outline #11
Prof. Knight
The Rise of Christianity.
I. The Reinvention of the Roman Empire
The Emperor Diocletian (284-305)
The Tetrarchy (rule by four)
Empire divided into east and west
One Emperor (Augustus) one Caesar for each section.
Diocletian and co-ruler abdicate in 305AD
Emperor Constantine (307-337)
Victor in Civil War (312AD)
Attributes victory to use of Christian symbols
Legalizes Christianity, eventually converts.
II. The Beginnings of Christianity
The religious contextJewish Sects.
Sadduccees: Strict adherence to ritual, accommodation with Rome
Zealots: Violent opposition to Roman rule.
Pharasees: Looser interpretation of Bible, Focus on inward spirituality.
John the Baptist: One of many itinerant religious leaders.
Joshua ben Joseph (AKA Jesus Christ)
The 12 disciples (Peter and James main figures)
The Gnostic Bible
Paul of Tarsus
Standardizes Christian message.
Conversion of the Gentiles.
Split between Christianity and Judaism
The Gospels
Synoptic: Mark (oldest), Luke, Matthew
Gospel of John (written last)
Hellenization of Christianity:
Relations with Rome:
Sacrifices to the Emperor
Persecution:
Sts. Peter and Paul martyred under Emperor Nero.
Sporadic persecution and tolerance under Roman Empire.
Martyrs contribute to spread of Christianity.