Apocalypse Now: Apocalyptic Reception and Impact throughout History

Call For Papers: In the second year of this seminar (2021, since 2020 was canceled thanks to covid-19), the focus will be on evil protagonists (or: antagonists) in eschatological scenarios, eschatological figures, such as the Antichrist, the Lamb, the mahdi, the two martyrs, the emperor, et cetera. How are these figures shaped in the sources at our disposal? What is the role they play in the eschatological narrative-building process? The methodology of this seminar intends to focus on the interplay of three elements in particular: 1) authoritative texts and/or traditions used by a particular group in particular texts; 2) the ways in which existing materials are combined and harmonized; 3) the relation to the perceived crisis depicted in the text(s) under scrutiny. This methodology leads to questions such as these: Which existing traditional apocalyptic materials are incorporated in the description(s) of the occurrence of such an antithetical-figure? How does the harmonization of existing traditions lead to a renewal of eschatological motifs? What is the function of these figures in the rhetoric of the eschatological discourse in which they play a role? In 2021, the seminar intends to organize three sessions: one closed session for which the presenters will be invited, and two open sessions where scholars may apply for participation. Please make sure to focus on antichrist-figures and look for the roots of the incorporated traditions, for their rhetorical function, and for the way(s) in which their figures are contextualized in the eschatological setting that the group under scrutiny assumes.

Program Unit Chairs

Propose a Paper for this Program Unit

Questions About Membership?

• Call 866-727-9955 Toll Free in the US
• Call 404-727-9498 Outside the US
• Fax us at 404-727-2419
• Email us at sblservices@sbl-site.org