Abstract

This chapter defends the thesis that Proclus defended pagan theology against Christianity by displaying its agreement with Platonic philosophy. The author addresses the sense in which Platonic philosophy is, and has to be, a theology, according to Proclus. He then explains how Proclus defended the agreement of Platonic theology with ‘other’ theologies, specifically the Mysteries, first by following Iamblichus in retracing it to Orpheus and Pythagoras, and second by following Syrianus in including the Orphic poems and Chaldaean Oracles in the school’s curriculum. These two sources are moreover shown to be suitable for inclusion, due to their kinship with Platonism, and their agreement with it is elaborated. Finally, the author explains how Proclus’ defence of paganism theory was interweaved with ritual practice, which includes theurgic rites, but also the practice of exegesis.