Dr. Haas

Athanasius: Life of St. Anthony

How would you compare the Life of St. Anthony with other ancient biographies we've read?

To what writings does it seem most akin? Why do you think it was so wildly popular?

Who is its intended audience? What does Athanasius say is his purpose in writing it?

What was your favorite story from the Life? What one part did you like least?

Before his call to asceticism, is Anthony anyone important?

How would you describe his upbringing? Is he well educated?

How does he relate to pagan philosophers?

What precipitated his conversion?

Was he the first to withdraw from the world? What makes Anthony different?

How does Anthony progress in his spiritual life?

Is Anthony a student of the Bible?

Why does Anthony withdraw from "the world"? Why does he withdraw yet further?

Does he seem to be running away from his Christian responsibilities?

What form do his temptations take? Why?

What is the purpose of all the temptations: to Anthony? to the writer?

Why does Anthony practice such harsh bodily disciplines?

Does Anthony seem mentally imbalanced to you? Why or why not?

Although he is removed from civilization, is he cut off from society?

With what types of people does Anthony have contact?

If Anthony had never left his cell, could he still be a good Christian?

Why does he need to first separate himself from society before he can minister to society?

What happens when Anthony visits Alexandria? What do the pagan Alexandrians think of him?

Do we know what Anthony thinks about cities?

Does Anthony ever start a monastery? How do monasteries function in Egyptian society?

How does Anthony relate to church authorities?  to imperial authorities? to local governmental authorities?

How does bishop Athanasius make use of Anthony?

What is the relationship between martyrdom and asceticism?

In your view, is Anthony's lifestyle the best form of Christianity?