The past is prologue

the long version

"While there has been substantial scholarly work done on the development of Christian doctrine in the fourth and fifth centuries, very little corresponding attention has been paid to the writing of church history during this critical period. This work examines how authors began to construct the historical narrative of the 'Arian' controversy and focuses on the interplay between theology and worshipping communities. Major figures such as Eusebius and Athanasius are examined, and important but overlooked figures such as an anonymous non-Nicene chronicler and Philostorgius are also included." "The book surveys recent developments in the study of 'Arianism' and discusses the usefulness of the very category of an 'Arian controversy', as well as the thesis that church histories are important sources for understanding the development of doctrine. One chapter is devoted to Eusebius' Ecclesiastical History, especially the oft-overlooked Book X. The book is particularly useful for persons interested in examining the development of doctrine in the fourth century from fresh perspectives. The work approaches church histories as narrative myths of community origins produced by worshipping communities standing in continuity to local schools of thought."--BOOK JACKET.