Celsus in His Own Words: A Translation of The True Teaching

This work is a translation of Celsus'TheTrue Teaching--the very first extensive criticism of Christianity, probably written in the late second century CE. In contrast to the rendition of this work by R. J. Hoffmann, Dr. Litwa offers a literal--though not wooden--translation of Celsus in an attempt to represent its original language and force. Celsus was eloquent, witty, and sharp-witted. There is, accordingly, no need to improve on his language or rhetoric, let alone to add or rearrange material. Litwa simply tries to representTheTrue Teaching—in all its biting wit and force. The power and clarity of Celsus' arguments still amaze people today, as well as his ability to foreshadow later Christian and anti-Christian developments and themes. In short, Celsus'True Teachinghas stood the test of time, and it touches a nerve even today. It contains precious information about early Christian diversity, theology, associations, cult practices, and it offers an extensive comparison with Greco-Roman literature and mythology.Read more