BOOK BRIEF

The Gnostic Gospels

Elaine Pagels
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The Gnostic Gospels

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1989

Book Brief

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Elaine Pagels

The Gnostic Gospels

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1989
Book Details
Pages

218

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Fantasy

Philosophy
Setting

Egypt • 2nd Century

Topic
Philosophy

Religion & Spirituality

World History
Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Gnostic Gospels, Elaine Pagels explores early Christian texts that offer alternative perspectives on Christian doctrines. Through these texts, Pagels provides insight into the diverse beliefs and practices in early Christianity, highlighting the struggles between orthodoxy and heresy and how political, social, and theological conflicts shaped the development of the Christian tradition.

Informative

Mysterious

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

21,021 ratings

73%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Elaine Pagels' The Gnostic Gospels offers an insightful exploration into early Christian texts, highlighting the diversity of beliefs. Positively acclaimed for its scholarly rigor and accessible writing, it illuminates hidden histories. However, some critics find it speculative at times, wishing for deeper analysis of certain theological implications.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Gnostic Gospels?

A reader interested in The Gnostic Gospels by Elaine Pagels would likely have a keen interest in religious history and early Christian texts. They might also enjoy works like The Nag Hammadi Scriptures or Bart D. Ehrman's Lost Christianities, as these books dive into similar themes of religious diversity and historical intrigue.

4.2

21,021 ratings

73%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

218

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Fantasy

Philosophy
Setting

Egypt • 2nd Century

Topic
Philosophy

Religion & Spirituality

World History
Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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