This paper considers the theme of the resurrection in Gregory of
Nyssa's Life of St. Macrina (VM). More explicitly than in his
theoretical ascetical works or his explicitly doctrinal treatises, in
this text, Gregory literally fleshes out practical aspects of his
theology of the resurrection. A close look at the story's development
shows that not only Macrina's initial step into the ascetic life but
every other step along the way is motivated by an ever-increasing ‘hope
in the resurrection'. Her philosophy of the resurrection guides her
through the painful deaths of her loved ones to the pinnacle of her
earthly life, i.e. her own death. It also stands as the motivating force
behind her choice of lifestyle. Macrina's relationships of mutual
obedience and respect, her decision to live on the same level as her
servants and the almost heavenly atmosphere of prayer and work which
Gregory describes her monastery as having can be seen as direct
depictions of Gregory's understanding of how to live in and out of the
hope of the resurrection. By providing these specific examples Gregory
of Nyssa makes plain in the VM his desire to show a ‘correct'
understanding of the resurrection not only as a necessary aspect of
right theology but as a penetrating and attractive force in the daily
lives of those prepared to follow in Macrina's footsteps.
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