Abstract
The following essay discusses in what ways fifth-century theologians Pelagius, Jerome, and Augustine mobilize different understandings of class and race in order to implement their own theological views regarding consecrated virginity. More specifically, this study will focus on the texts written in connection to fourteen-year-old Demetrias’s consecration as a virgin of Christ. The article will show that while Pelagius uses a positive view of (inner) nobility and wealth to propagate lifelong virginity, Jerome and Augustine focus on the rejection of worldly riches. In addition, Jerome uses negative descriptions of non-Roman people as a way of strengthening Demetrias’s resolve to live as a consecrated virgin. Augustine, however, does not rely on Jerome’s strategy: he rather turns Pelagius’s description of spiritual wealth and its origins against Pelagius, using it to condemn his general views on grace.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
