18/19 Julian the Apostate and Athanasius of Alexandria

Julian the Apostate

Julian, cousin of Constantius, harbored resentment due to family massacres, possibly orchestrated to consolidate power after Constantine's death. Julian and his brother Gallus were spared due to their youth. Gallus was later executed by Constantius, whereas Julian, after studying philosophy, was appointed Caesar of Gaul, where he excelled as a ruler and general. Proclaimed Augustus by his troops, Julian marched on Constantinople after Constantius' death, becoming emperor.

Julian is most remembered for his religious policy, aiming to restore paganism and hinder Christianity. He reorganized the pagan priesthood, returned confiscated temple properties, and promoted acts of charity. While not instigating outright Christian persecution, he forbade Christians from teaching classical literature and ridiculed them.

Julian attempted to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem to rebuke Christian prophecies. He died during a Persian campaign; his last words are rumored to be, "Thou hast conquered, Galilean."

Athanasius of Alexandria

Athanasius, a key figure at the Council of Nicaea, championed Nicene orthodoxy. Likely of Coptic origin and from a lower social class, he maintained strong ties with desert monks, embodying rigid discipline and austerity.

Athanasius emphasized the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ as central to Christian faith. He viewed Arianism, which denied Jesus's true divinity, as a grave threat. Despite seeking a peaceful life, Athanasius became Bishop of Alexandria, facing opposition from Arians who spread rumors and sought his downfall.

Athanasius was exiled multiple times, including banishment to Trier by Constantine and later exiles under Constantius. He found support in Rome and among desert monks. Athanasius skillfully navigated accusations and political challenges, including dramatically proving his innocence against charges of murder.

During his exiles, Athanasius strengthened ties with orthodox defenders and wrote against Arianism. He argued for the necessity of the incarnation for salvation, asserting that only the creator could accomplish re-creation. Athanasius sought theological agreement, clarifying the Nicene Creed and allowing for flexibility in terminology to unite Christians against Arianism.

Under Emperor Julian, Athanasius faced renewed opposition and exile due to his resistance to pagan revival. He cleverly evaded capture. After brief respites under Jovian, he faced further challenges under the Arian Valens but ultimately remained in Alexandria until his death. Athanasius was confident in the eventual triumph over Arianism and inspired a new generation of theologians like the Cappadocian Fathers.