The Apocalypse in the Early Middle Ages by James T. Palmer
Anne Latowsky
Reviewed by: The Apocalypse in the Early Middle Ages by James T. Palmer Anne Latowsky Ages. By Palmer. (New York: Cambridge University Press. 2014. Pp. 254. $29.99. ISBN 978-1-107-449-091.) Palmer’s new book is a carefully presented, groundbreaking study of apocalyptic thinking that successfully cuts through often impenetrable scholarly debates over role End-Time prophecies early learned yet highly readable introduces understanding function eschatology and prophecy will change way we think about this central aspect medieval past. divided into seven chapters work chronologically from waning Roman Empire early-eleventh century, focusing on essential periods during which destiny world, Christian metonymically speaking, was imagined eschatological terms: fall Rome, Arab invasions, empire Charlemagne, decline Carolingian power, turn first millennium reign Otto III. Although structured largely around these key periods, no limited to problem imperial eschatology. Instead, considers wide variety articulations concern coming end time, how able make his argument so successfully. Summoning evidence Europe, he shows anxiety rarely consistent, since factors such as varying intellectual traditions; differences political, religious, social practice; uneven approaches Augustinian prescription against prediction produced individual communal visions End. [End Page 828] begins with an in-depth historiographical section lucidly presents thorny matters silence (for some deafening) surrounding coincidence coronation Charlemagne prophesied AM Y6K (the biblical Annus Mundi 6000 according Eusebian calculations), significance AD Y1K or alleged terrors year 1000. A generous narrator throughout, deftly transcends seemingly insoluble disagreements offering third form systematic view woven fabric society at all levels force for reform improvement. As motivational tool face inevitable Judgment, discourse functioned differently different contexts, it yielded similar results. inevitability Judgment (whether imminent not) inspired desire improve, not just when times were bad. broader does minimize importance eschatology, however. contemplation End less urgent, more optimistic, diffuse than has previously been thought. To case, author works, but particularly illuminating presentation writings subsequent influence St. Gregory Great, Tours, Venerable Bede, Pseudo-Methodius, Adso Montier-en-Der. also sheds important light relationship between expressions community level treatment perceived outsiders, especially Jews, who figure play scenario Antichrist. With its unprecedented take age-old question, be reading many, if all, students makes accessible price appreciated. South Florida Copyright © 2016 Catholic America Press
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