Johann Eck’s Edition of Pseudo-Dionysius’ Mystical Theology: Teaching the Unknowable?
Eleni Leontidou
The Journal of Ecclesiastical History April 13, 2026 DOI: 10.1017/s0022046925101681 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that Eck's 1519 edition of Pseudo-Dionysius' Mystical Theology was shaped by humanism, scholasticism, and affective theology, and that its purpose was to renew scholastic theology and revive mystical theology for scholastic theologians. |
Abstract
In 1519, the German theologian and humanist Johann Eck published an edition and commentary on Pseudo-Dionysius’ Mystical theology . By examining this edition, this article explores the early modern reception of Pseudo-Dionysius and the influences that shaped Eck as a scholar. It categorises these influences into humanism, scholasticism and affective theology, analysing how each impacted his work. This article also argues that the purpose behind Eck’s edition is two-fold: to renew scholastic theology and to revive mystical theology by introducing or recommending it to an audience of scholastic theologians.