Identifying contradictions among Ancient Greek philosophical schools as apologetic method in Eusebius of Caesarea’s “Preparation for the Gospel”

The article introduces the apologetic method employed by Eusebius of Caesarea in the 14th book of his apologetic treatise, “Preparation for the Gospel”. The purpose of this method is twofold: on the one hand, it aims to demonstrate the superiority of Christian doctrine over the wisdom of the Hellenes, and on the other hand, it seeks to respond to a common accusation against Christians in the 3rd century of abandoning and betraying the traditions and wisdom of their Hellenic homeland. Using this method, Eusebius quotes numerous sources, drawing from the library of Caesarea in Palestine that he inherited. Quoting Greek philosophers, Eusebius highlights various disagreements on the most fundamental philosophical issues, and emphasizing the Truth’s ability to generate harmony and peace among those who found it, he ultimately concludes the falseness of Hellenic philosophy. Parallel to this, Eusebius points to the “true philosophy” upheld by Christians. This apologetic method is analyzed, its key features are considered, some classification of the types of contradictions identified by Eusebius among Greek philosophers is presented, and the apologist’s perspective on the reasons behind these contradictions and disagreements is explored. Finally, discussed are the effectiveness of Eusebius’s apologetic method and its challenges.