Orthodox or Heretic?

From the great theological controversies of Late Antiquity to the iconoclastic disputes of the Middle Byzantine period, accusations of heresy shaped religious identities, imperial policies, ecclesiastical careers, and everyday life. Yet the distinction between "orthodox" and "heretical" was rarely as simple or self-evident as later narratives suggest. Through historical sources and collaborative debate, participants will investigate how religious authority was constructed and contested. Assuming the roles of emperors, bishops, monks, theologians, and members of the Christian community, they will confront a simulated Byzantine religious controversy and attempt to determine where — and by whom — the boundaries of orthodoxy should be drawn. Interactive activity: Orthodox or Heretic. Participants will examine quotes that grounded theological controversy. Will the disputed teaching be accepted as orthodox, condemned as heretical, or preserved through a carefully negotiated compromise? No specialist knowledge of Byzantine theology is required. Introductory material and selected sources will be provided during the workshop. The workshop is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, doctoral and early-career researchers, teachers and educators, scholars of history, theology, religious studies, classics and Byzantine studies, and anyone with a serious interest in Byzantine history and Christianity. Practical information — Date: 5 September, 18:00 EEST. Format: online. Working language: English. Duration: 90 minutes. Certificates of participation will be provided. Join us in the council chamber, examine the evidence, defend your position — and discover how easily today's orthodoxy could become tomorrow's heresy.