The Life of Euthymius Zigaben and the Role of the Bogomil Polemics

Abstract

The paper focuses on the various aspects of the biography of the famous theologian of the XIIth century Euthymius Zigabenus. The aim of the study is to present a description of the most probable picture of the life of Euthymius Zigabenus. A special focus in the paper is given to the question of how the Bogomil heresy, which spread with particular force in Byzantium under Emperor Alexeius I Comnenus, could affect the life and works of Euthymius. The methodology of the study is based on the collection and analysis of currently available information about the life of Euthymius Zigabenus, the assessment of those data that are hypothetical in nature. In addition, the philological method of research was used to analyse the texts of the works of Euthymius. The author suggests various ways of solving the problem of contradictions in various sources of information about Euthymius Zigabenus. As a result of the study, material about Euthymius, recorded in manuscripts and sources, is presented. The research revealed possible places and time of his birth, education, monastic life and works. The paper reveals Zigabenus's connection with the Imperial court, reports on his service under the emperor, and assesses the influence of the task of fighting the Bogomils set before Euthymius on his life and work.