In Search of the Social Élite in the Corinthian Church

Abstract

As the Corinthian correspondence is read against the cultural background of a Roman colony, it is possible to identify members of the social élite within the church. After a consideration of the nature of the city and its élite, various case studies are presented. These include issues such as law courts, head-dresses, divisions at the Lord’s Supper, households and dining. Through the issue of benefactions further light is thrown on Corinth’s place in the province of Achaia and an estimate is made for the city’s population.