Miniature codices in early Christianity / Michael J. Kruger.
| Author/creator | Kruger, Michael J. author. |
| Format | Book |
| Publication | Oxford : Oxford University Press, 2025 |
| Copyright Date | ©2025 |
| Description | 218 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm. |
| Subjects |
| Series | Oxford early Christian studies Oxford early Christian studies. ^A324317 |
| Contents | Compressed in tiny skins: introduction to the miniature codex -- One-hand books: characteristics of miniature codices -- He carried the books of sacred Scripture: practical functions of miniature codices -- The devil will not approach: iconic functions of miniature codices -- Catalog of Greek Christian miniature codices: New Testament texts -- Catalog of Greek Christian miniature codices: non-canonical and liturgical-ritual texts -- Conclusion: observations, implications, and pathways for further research. |
| Abstract | "While there has been a renewed scholarly interest in paratextual features of early Christian manuscripts, that interest has rarely extended to the size of manuscripts, particularly the format known as the miniature codex. Such neglect is surprising, given that this miniature format was a notable part of early Christian textual culture, emerging as early as the second century and visible well into the seventh century and beyond. So established was this format among Christians during this period, that C.H. Roberts once surmised (incorrectly) that, "The miniature codex would seem to be a Christian invention. "Many of these tiny books were elegant, well crafted, and could contain a surprising number of pages. Currently, we have over 60 such codices, which contain a wide range of Christian literature including New Testament books, patristic, and non-canonical writings (e.g., the Didache, Acts of Paul, and apocryphal gospels),and even liturgical-ritual texts. This volume is the first full-length monograph on the phenomenon of the miniature codex, offering a framework for distinguishing miniature codices from other tiny texts (e.g., amulets), exploring their practical and iconic functions, and, perhaps most importantly, assembling a detailed catalog of all known Christian and Greek miniature codices. This distinctive book format provides an essential window into the textual, literary, and visual culture of early Christianity, shedding fresh light on how and why Christians were considered people of the book." -- Book jacket. |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (pages 185-207) and indexes. |
| ISBN | 9780198940395 |
| ISBN | 0198940394 (hardcover) |
Availability
| Library | Location | Call Number | Status | Item Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joyner | Order on Demand Title | Order On Demand | ✔ Available | Click to order this title |