In his latest book, Timothy D. Barnes examines the period from Constantine I to Theodosius I (306-395) and the debate concerning the nature of Christ (was he equal or inferior to God the Father?), which diverted church and state at this time. His case study is Athanasius, bishop of Alexandria, champion of the trinitarian, Nicene Creed.

Barnes' aim is "to disentangle the true course of events" of Athanasius' career, which he attempts through rigorous examination of the sources, with ...