“As Far as My Poor Memory Suggested”: Cyprian’s Compilation of Ad Quirinum

Abstract

The question of who compiled Ad Quirinum remains unresolved. The previous consensus that it was indeed Cyprian, based largely on Koch’s work, was challenged by Bobertz over twenty years ago. Since then, the issue has received little attention. Here I refute Bobertz’s main arguments for believing that the collection existed prior to Cyprian’s conversion. I argue that textual variations between Ad Quirinum and Cyprian’s letters and treatises do not rule out Cyprian being the compiler, as similar variations also occur in Cyprian’s uncontested works. I examine the role of tradition and memory in scriptural citation and show how Cyprian’s own catechumenate assisted in his preparation of Ad Quirinum. I also demonstrate that there is no conflict between Test. 3.28 and Cyprian’s practice in the wake of the Decian persecution and consider why Pontius did not include the work in his list of treatises.