Chapter 4 treats the Cappadocians’ hagiographic biographies in conjunction with their polemic against non-Trinitarian theologians.The chapter begins by outlining the background and teachings of Eunomius of Cyzicus (c. 335–c. 395), a longtime heterousian rival to the Cappadocians. The chapter analyzes the narratives about fourth-century Nicene bishop Athanasius of Alexandria (c. 298–372), Basil, and Macrina as hagiographies designed in part to contrast true (pro-Nicene) doctrine against the false philosophy of non-Trinitarians.These saints’ ascetic feats are recounted as spiritual ordeals fashioned as classical contests: in Athanasius, suffering multiple exiles because of standing up to false (heterousian) teachers; in Basil, countering threats to the Nicene faith by imperial officials; and in Macrina, enduring disease and death with unwavering resolve.In each case,Nyssen or Nazianzen emphasize that character is formed out of struggle; and that voice and speech (as a metaphor for doctrine) have been purified and validated in pro-Nicene theologians, but are corrupted and disingenuous in the untested charlatans they oppose.

Chapter 3 begins by laying out the late-fourth century theological conflict that set the backdrop for the following texts. It then investigates Nyssen’s and Nazianzen’s hagiographic biographies of third-century bishop Gregory Thaumaturgus (c. 210–270), Basil (the Great), Macrina, and Gorgonia; each affiliated with pro-Nicene leadership. In these accounts, the protagonists demonstrate feats of strength and perseverance, modeled on ancient Greek athletes and warriors and biblical heroes; the latter refashioned to accord with characterizations of classical masculinity.The subjects stand out as examples of piety and authority not only for their actions, but also for their appearance.Nyssen and Nazianzen detailed the beauty of each as a testament of their excellence, an example of evaluating the body according to classical Greek norms.As projections of moral superiority and fortitude, these personifications projected Trinitarian supporters as a synthesis of holiness and manhood.By authoring these accounts, Nyssen and Nazianzen enhanced their own capital as theologians associated with saints acquitted through various contests that defended truth.