Between the Ascetic & the Secular. The Case of Thecla

Abstract

the acts of Paul and Theckla remain, until today, an exciting and, historically and theologically, well-informed reading, especially concerning the aspects of asceticism, monastic life, and the secular element. Theckla is an essential Christian figure, as she dares to question the institution of marriage and pursues her virginity. This decision brings a whole new world to her: The ascetic one. In a pagan society, the decision for a female to embrace Christianity and live as a virgin is inexcusable. This paper will focus on the religious transition from pagan to Christian belief through the face of Theckla, as well as the historical elements of asceticism and its ideological background. Moreover, the society’s context will be presented and analyzed to see the relationship between women, asceticism, secularity, and culture in the second century.