Gina Derhard: From Redemption to Resurrection: The Strategic Use of Metaphors by Jerome and Augustine

I propose to compare two consolatory letters concerning the use of metaphors. These metaphors do not only shape the letter’s structure but are also performative, making and marking important shifts in terms of content. They serve inner- as well as extra-textual purposes.In an obituary for Fabiola, Jerome has to face the problem of her second marriage in the lifetime of her first husband, considered a sin. He thus precedes his panegyric by an apologia, which is framed by a metaphoric sea travel. This journey depicts the upcoming quarrel about her remarriage and the calm restored after the obituary’s written defence. Therefore, the narration influences the literary structure of this letter, while the letter is said to represent a real change in the people’s attitude towards Fabiola. These images depict narratological events that transform Fabiola from chaste woman to sinner, from sinner to penitent and from penitent to saint. Therefore, Fabiola is acquitted and turned into a Christian saint.In a consolatory letter to Sapida, Augustine makes use of a similar literary strategy. Sapida lost her beloved brother and sends Augustine the tunica she wove for her relative. Augustine turns this object into a metaphor: Indeed, this change from a real to a metaphoric tunica describes the brother’s transformation from dead to resurrect, reflecting on the eschatological vision of 4 Esr 2,45. The tunica frames the letter’s argumentative structure, from discussing the right to mourn to addressing the hope for eternal life.