Poetry as an Alternative to a Learned Theological Explanation? Cover Image

Poézia ako alternatíva učeného teologického výkladu?
Poetry as an Alternative to a Learned Theological Explanation?

The Holy Trinity through the Lens of the Poetry of St. Gregory of Nazianzus

Author(s): Erika Brodňanská
Subject(s): Studies of Literature, Theology and Religion
Published by: Univerzita Palackého v Olomouci
Keywords: Gregory of Nazianzus; Poetry; the Holy Trinity; Persuasion;

Summary/Abstract: Gregory of Nazianzus valued the educational influence of poetry. He hoped that the recipients of his poetry would be not only delighted, but also educated and convinced by its attractive form. This is the case with the problém of the Holy Trinity as well. A closer study of Gregory’s verses, presenting and introducing the secret of the Holy Trinity, reveals the union of the impersonal view of Gregory the Theologian with the profound personal feeling of Gregory the man. Gregory proposes a clear definition of the mutual reby its attractive form. This is the case with the problem of the Holy Trinity as well. A lation of the three divine persons, their trinity, and presents the immense secret of the Trinity. In relation to man, he argues for the grace and kindness of the Trinity. These verses, primarily written for the common people, the young without any experience, people from Gregory’s environment, very often unbelievers, could be taken for an alternative to the more thoughtful and more sophisticated theological sermons. In these verses, Gregory offers basic truths, while using poetic means and expressions to make them more attractive. It helps him arouse the interest of listeners or readers, and their willingness to perceive is subsequently transformed into a better understanding and memorization of the presented truths.

  • Issue Year: XXIV/2022
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 15-39
  • Page Count: 25
  • Language: Slovak