Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite

Among the philosophers who most influenced Medieval Christian theology whose work provided the inspiration for stained glass windows in churches is an ancient thinker who was not the person he pretended to be. Dionysius the Areopagite was a minor character in the Book of Acts. In the 5th century, a Christian Neoplatonist impersonated Dionysius as a way to give his philosophical writings the aura of apostolic authority. He was further confused with the patron saint of Paris, a completely different Dionysius or “Denis,” who had been bishop of Paris in the 3rd century. John Hamer of Toronto Centre Place will untangle the histories of the different Dionysiuses and explain the scope and influence of Pseudo-Dionysius’ works. Join the livestream to participate in the discussion and to ask questions to our lecturer during the Q&A. Topics covered in this lecture include: Medieval Christian Theology Neoplatonism in Christianity Mystical Theology The Book of Acts and Dionysius Stained Glass Art in Medieval Churches Saint Denis, Bishop of Paris Intersection of Philosophy and Early Christian Thought The Role of Authorship and Authority in Ancient Writings Browse our catalogue of free lectures at https://www.centreplace.ca/lectures Your generous support allows us to offer these lectures at no cost. Please consider a making donation (tax deductible in the US and Canada) at https://www.centreplace.ca/donate ️