Mediterranean Apocalypticism: An Introduction
In: Early Modern Prophecies in Transnational, National and Regional Contexts (3 vols.)Search for other papers by Mayte Green-Mercado in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Purchase instant access (PDF download and unlimited online access):
Abstract
This introduction delineates the main contours of apocalyptic thought and practice in the early modern Mediterranean. Taking the characteristic features of the early modern Mediterranean as outlined by scholars, such as unity in diversity, multiculturalism, and interconfessional exchange and conflict, it argues that there is a case to be made for a discrete Mediterranean apocalyptic phenomenon. After providing a general historical context in which to understand the essays included in volume 2, this introduction outlines the intellectual genealogies and salient imagery present in Mediterranean apocalyptic texts. In addition to providing textual examples, this introduction illustrates the characteristic features of Mediterranean apocalypticism through examples of rulers with messianic prerogatives, everyday prophets, mystics, and messiahs who attempted to lay claim to a privileged connection to the divine.