Greek Brothels in Jerusalem? Vulgate Readings of the Second Book of the Maccabees

Abstract

The paper presents peculiarities of the Vulgate version of the Second Book of the Maccabees (2 Mcc). The Vulgate text is contrasted with the original Greek (Septuagint), as well as other Latin translations (Vetus Latina). Topics dealt with include: style, narrative focus, names and numbers, cultural background, ‘misanthropy’, and theological peculiarities. The paper is intended as a general overview, rather than an exhaustive treatment.