Ecclesiastical Histories in historical research

origin, characteristics and challenges

Abstract

This article aims to investigate the emergence of Ecclesiastical Histories in the early fourth century, taking into account the historical context of the period and the need to construct a Christian identity that spurred the development of this literary genre. With particular emphasis on Eusebius of Caesarea as the pioneer of this tradition, the analysis explores how Ecclesiastical Histories diverge from the classical historiographical genre, highlighting their unique characteristics. Subsequently, the focus shifts to the fifth-century Ecclesiastical Histories written by Socrates Scholasticus, Sozomen of Bethelia, and Theodoret of Cyrrhus, examining some of their distinctive features. Finally, the article reflects on the use of such documentation in historical research, emphasizing the challenges and difficulties inherent in analyzing this type of source.