Clement of Alexandria on Trial

Clement of Alexandria (c.150–215 CE) is one of the most significant theologians of the second-century, and his work is still the subject of intense academic debate. This book provides a new perspective on Clement’s thought, through a critical examination of the work of one of his critics, Photios (c.820–893 CE). Photios, the Patriarch of Constantinople, based his critique on Clement’s (now lost) treatise ‘Hypotyposeis’, claiming the work contained eight ‘heresies’. The book examines each ‘error’ listed in the 109th codex of Photios’ ‘Bibliotheca’ in depth, using evidence from Clement’s existing work to consider the likely accuracy of Photios’ critique. Focusing on these eight ‘heresies’ offers a unique opportunity to illuminate what in terms of post-Nicene orthodoxy are Clement’s most problematic opinions, setting them in the context of their original philosophical and theological frame.

Piotr Ashwin-Siejkowski, PhD in Ancient Philosophy, University of Warsaw, is an Associate Lecturer at the University of Chichester (UK). He has published on Clement of Alexandria (Clement of Alexandria. A Project of Christian Perfection, Continuum 2008), early Christianity and Neoplatonism.

"...provides students of early Christiainty with an excellent introduction to the thought of Clement of Alexandria. [...] The organisation of the book and of each particular chapter makes it a convenient source of reference for many aspects of Clement's thought. [...]Clement of Alexandria on Trial constitutes an excellent introduction to key features of Clement's thought, as well as the philosophical and theological milieu in which he wrote. Ashwin-Siejkowski has done Clement, and early Christian theology in general, a considerable service by producing a simple discussion of complex issues that is well organized and easily accessible. The text will find a wide and ready audience among students and scholars alike." – Anthony Briggman, Vigiliae Christianae 66 (2012)
"This is an ambitious and (in the best sense) an imaginative book. [...] The book is full of insights into post-Nicene exegesis and into the late antique reception history of Alexandria's first great Christian scholar. [...] [Ashwin-Siejkowski] seeks to provide a fresh perpective on Clement, by asking question of him that modern scholarship has left to one side. This feshness gives breath to every page of Clement of Alexandria on Trial. [...] the approach, questions and emphases are new and engaging." – Jane Heath, Durham University, The Expository Times 124(8)