De Spectaculis

Tertullian

ISBN 10: 164373086X / ISBN 13: 9781643730868

Published by Lighthouse Publishing, 2018

About this Item

Seller Inventory # LU-9781643730868

Bibliographic Details

• Title: De Spectaculis
• Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing
• Publication Date: 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 164373086X
• ISBN 13: 9781643730868
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New
• Dimensions: 13.97W x 0.3H x 21.59D centimeters 13.97 centimeters width by 0.3 centimeters height by 21.59 centimeters depth
• Weight: 82 grams

About this title

Synopsis

The Shows or De Spectaculis, also known as On the Spectacles, is a treatise by Tertullian. Written somewhere between 197-202, the work comments on issues and consequences related to the attendance of circus, theatre, or amphitheatre ("the pleasures of public shows").

Tertullian's views of these public performances in the theatre are that they are immoral and lead to corruption. Tertullian argues that spectacles are derived from pagan ritual rites (the Liberalia, the Consualia, the Equiria, the Bacchanalia, etc.). The performances only excite the crowd which leads to "spiritual agitation". This work gives insight into the ancient world of the theatre and circus and how Christians should avoid their allure.