LibGuides: Introduction to Historical Theology: Tertullian of Carthage

Brief Biography

Tertullian was born around 150 AD and is considered one of the three great early church fathers from Northern Africa. Known for being a militant Christian that wrote against many heresies, his writings have created the framework for some of the most important theological beliefs of the church. He was the first church father to write extensively in Latin and set the tone for how many of the subsequent church fathers approached their theologian discussions. Because of the persistent attempts to blend Christianity with many of the existing philosophies and religions in the Mediterranean, Tertullian wrote against these prevailing philosophies and their supporters. Undoubtedly, Tertullian is one of the most important Church fathers because of his ability to unite the teachings of the Scriptures with the practices of the church.

Primary Sources

Tertullian by Geoffrey D. Dunn
Call Number: BR65.T7 D86 2004
ISBN: 9780415282314
Publication Date: 2004-07-21

This book is a collection of his early works, which includes: "Against the Jews," Antidote for the Scorpian's Sting," and "On the Veiling of Virgins." This also includes brief commentaries and provides helpful context.

Apology and de Spectaculis, Octavius by W. C. Kerr (Photographer); G. H. Rendall (Translator); Tertullian
ISBN: 9780674992764
Publication Date: 1931-01-01
This is a translation of Tertullian's work "Apology and De Spectaculis" and includes the original Latin alongside the English translation, proving to be very helpful for those who like to study in the original language.
The Early Chistians by Eberhard Arnold (Editor); Tertullian; Hermas; Justin; Ignatius; Polycarp; Irenaeus; Origen; Clement of Alexandria Staff
ISBN: 0874865964
Publication Date: 2014-09-01
The Early Christians: In Their Own Words is a collection of primary source writings from several church fathers including Origen, Tertullian, and Irenaeus.

Electronic Sources

Tertullian - Christian Theologian
A quick, helpful, and reliable biography that includes a brief explanation of his most notable works.
The Tertullian Project
This is a good reference to many of his important works that are studied most frequently. It includes translations, a biography, manuscripts, and commentaries.

Secondary Sources: Commentaries

Tertullian's Treatise against Praxeas by Ernest Evans
ISBN: 1608997456
Publication Date: 2011-04-01
Based on Tertullian's writings against Praxeas, this is a helpful resource that includes commentary on what is being said theologically.
Tertullian's Treatise on the Resurrection by Ernest Evans
ISBN: 1498295002
Publication Date: 2016-05-15
A translation that includes commentary on his developments within his treatise. An important resource to understand how and why he put this treatise together and how it became an important part of the Church's doctrine later on.

Secondary Sources: Religious Study

From Logos to Trinity by Marian Hillar
ISBN: 1107013305
Publication Date: 2012-01-30
From Logos to Trinity is an important discussion on the development of Trinitarian theology in the early Church. It includes a wide range of works and is an effective resource at having a more comprehensive of Tertullian's context and why wrote what he wrote.
Tertullian by Timothy David Barnes
ISBN: 0198143621
Publication Date: 1985-10-10
This book on Tertullian sets his works in chronological order and then analyzes how this influenced his intellectual development as a theologian. An extensive work that thoroughly gives a wide view of how Tertullian grew and changed as a theologian.
Tertullian the African by David E. Wilhite
ISBN: 3110194538
Publication Date: 2007-06-18
Tertullian the African looks at his social identity and how his cultural context and upbringing shaped him as a theologian. His militaristic attitude to heresy, for example, is explained in this work.

Introduction to Historical Theology: Tertullian of Carthage

Brief Biography

Primary Sources

Electronic Sources

Secondary Sources: Commentaries

Secondary Sources: Religious Study

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