Poza granicami wiary. Anatemy na Jana Italosa

Abstract

OUTSIDE THE FAITH. THE ANATHEMAS AGAINST JOHN ITALOS

The purpose of this article is to present and discuss the anathemas against John Italos – a relatively little known and controversial eleventh-century philosopher. The anathemas are a source of valuable information about Italos’s philosophy; they complement his works. Undoubtedly, John Italos by taking theology as part of philosophy followed in Greek philosophers’ footsteps. It should be underlined that the synod’s critical attitude concerned especially the following elements of his doctrine: Plato’s influence on his thought, using philosophical arguments and methods in solving the issues of theological nature and putting Hellenic wisdom over the Christian one. On the one hand, it gave the Church an opportunity to publicly condemn studies of ancient philosophy; after his trial in Byzantium (which began in 1076/1077 and ended in 1082) worshipping and preaching Hellenic wisdom equaled acting against the true faith. On the other hand, it is unquestionable that accusations against John Italos did not reflect his true theories and actions. As a result, we have a fundamental question – why was John Italos really condemned?


Keywords: JOHN ITALOS, ANATHEMA, BYZANTIUM