2006 Reports

Diabolical appearances in late antiquity : the case of exorcism

Lunn-Rockliffe, Sophie

This paper investigates the reasons why new images of the devil were introduced in the church, rather than seek reasons for explaining their previous non-existence. When one goes demon hunting in Christian art it is possible to find the presence of the Devil and his minions, but in surprising, and often subtly suggestive forms. The Devil’s presence is implied and required, if not depicted, in scriptural scenes of exorcism and temptation.