Writings Against Christians is a compelling anthology that delves into the intellectual, cultural, and religious confrontations between early Pagan philosophy and the nascent Christian movement. This rigorously assembled collection offers a profound examination of the tensions that shaped ancient thought, presenting a spectrum of rhetorical and philosophical approaches. From critiques of Christian doctrine to discourses on morality and divinity, the anthology showcases a remarkable array of literary styles, each preserving its cultural significance while contributing to an overarching narrative of dissent. A notable piece ignites conversation about the societal complexities of the era, resonating with timeless inquiry. The anthology features works from a cadre of eminent thinkers such as Thomas Taylor, Flavius Josephus, Porphyry, and Tacitus, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives drawn from varied backgrounds. These contributors, some of whom were direct observers of the early Christian era, bring a wealth of historical and philosophical knowledge. The collection aligns with classical traditions and Greco-Roman thought, offering readers insight into how these critical voices influenced the discourse and intellectual resistance surrounding burgeoning Christian ideologies. Recommended to scholars and lay readers alike, this anthology serves as an essential resource for understanding the diversity of ancient perspectives on Christianity. Offering educational enrichment and a multifaceted exploration of classical counter-narratives, Writings Against Christians encourages a deeper engagement with the historical dialogue that shaped religious and philosophical identities. This volume is a treasure trove for those seeking to navigate the intricate interplay of faith and reason across history's pages, revealing the enduring impact of these early debates on contemporary thought.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- An Introduction draws the threads together, discussing why these diverse authors and texts belong in one collection.
- Historical Context explores the cultural and intellectual currents that shaped these works, offering insight into the shared (or contrasting) eras that influenced each writer.
- A combined Synopsis (Selection) briefly outlines the key plots or arguments of the included pieces, helping readers grasp the anthology's overall scope without giving away essential twists.
- A collective Analysis highlights common themes, stylistic variations, and significant crossovers in tone and technique, tying together writers from different backgrounds.
- Reflection questions encourage readers to compare the different voices and perspectives within the collection, fostering a richer understanding of the overarching conversation.

Thomas Taylor, the prolific writer and translator, is not traditionally associated with a book entitled 'Writings Against Christians', and such a work does not align well with his known bibliographic canon. Most acclaimed for his translations of Plato, Aristotle, and other ancient philosophers into English, Taylor (1758–1835) is often referred to as the 'English Platonist'. His scholarly endeavors were dedicated to the exposition and revival of Platonism and Neoplatonism, making these philosophic works accessible to the English-speaking world. Taylor's translations and original writings, including 'The Platonic philosopher's creed' (1792) and 'The Theoretic Arithmetic of the Pythagoreans' (1816), exhibit his dedication to the esoteric and metaphysical currents of ancient thought. With a writing style characterized by its formality and erudition, Taylor sought not only to translate but also to preserve the purity and complexity of ancient philosophy. His work greatly influenced the Romantic poets and has been credited with contributing to a broader nineteenth-century resurgence of interest in classical philosophy. There are no indications in the scholarly record of Taylor having authored a book specifically targeting the Christian faith. Given Taylor's philosophical inclinations, it would perhaps be out of character for him to pen a work largely or solely devoted to polemics against Christianity.