Introduction. The Metamorphoses of Gnosticism

The complex and multifaceted religious phenomenon called Gnosticism continues to fascinate both specialists and the wider audience. This volume explores the “metamorphoses” of Gnosticism, through the analysis of selected examples. This Introduction discusses some methodological issues, like the definition of "Gnosticism" and the reception of Gnostic texts and motifs through the ages. It then describes the contents of the volume.