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The Pseudo-Clementines is the traditional title of a unique Christian novel (3rd- 4th century) transmitted in several versions. This article focuses on the Greek version, called the Homilies, and more specifically on a much discussed part of these, namely the discussions with the pagan Appion. The passage in which the main character Clement enters into discussion with Appion shows us how those characters claim truth and argue about true culture, philosophy, education, sexuality etc.. This passage is all too often considered as “separate” and “alien” in Pseudo-Clementine source criticism, making it underexposed territory in rhetorical and literary but also philosophical research. This contribution offers a rhetorical and narrative analysis of those disputes with Appion including some philosophical insights. This analysis also serves as a case study for the overall reading experience and the general interpretation of the Pseudo-Clementine Homilies. The Pseudo-Clementines is the traditional title of a unique Christian novel (3rd- 4th century) transmitted in several versions. This article focuses on the Greek version, called the Homilies, and more specifically on a much discussed part of these, namely the discussions with the pagan Appion. The passage in which the main character Clement enters into discussion with Appion shows us how those characters claim truth and argue about true culture, philosophy, education, sexuality etc.. This passage is all too often considered as “separate” and “alien” in Pseudo-Clementine source criticism, making it underexposed territory in rhetorical and literary but also philosophical research. This contribution offers a rhetorical and narrative analysis of those disputes with Appion including some philosophical insights. This analysis also serves as a case study for the overall reading experience and the general interpretation of the Pseudo-Clementine Homilies.
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