Readership: Scholars interested in Mariology, both ancient and modern; early Christian apocryphal literature; ancient gnostic traditions; Mediterranean late antiquity; and early Byzantium.
Stephen J. Shoemaker, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies, University of Oregon
"This is a masterful study, and the author is to be congratulated on his achievement." - International Review of Biblical Studies
"...Essential for the study of Mary in Early Christianity." - Sandra L. Zimdars-Swartz
"... impressive ... both rich and illuminating: it offers many new insights on the development of legends surrounding the departure of the Mother of God from earthly life and her sojourn in paradise thereafter ... a valuable contribution to the field. Shoemaker treats both primary and secondary sources comprehensively and skilfully, adding critical and imaginative insights to the work which has been done in the field." - Sobornost
"... the book's extensive bibliography is impressive ... The thesis is meticulously referenced with full and detailed footnotes ... Shoemaker's scholarship in this area will make his a name to reckon with in the future." - The Journal of Theological Studies
"... learned survey of the literary, archaeological, and liturgical sources for early traditions of the Dormition." - Bryn Mawr Classical Review
1: Earliest Dormition Traditions 2: Palestinian Cult of the Virgin 3: Rival Traditions of Mary's Death 4: Prehistory and Origins of the Dormition Traditions AppendicesA. The Ethiopic Liber Requiei B. Earliest Greek Dormition Narrative C. Fifth-Century Syriac Fragments D. The Ethiopic 'Six Books' E. (Ps.-) Evodius of Rome F. Jacob of Serug G. Palm Narrative Parallels
