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Introduction.

On the Character, Insights, and Works of those Ancient Philosophers, who were the first Apologists original: Schutzredner — literally "defense-speakers." These were intellectuals who wrote formal, often legalistic defenses of Christianity against state persecution and philosophical attacks. and Defenders of the Christian Religion.

Behold the most striking spectacle for both the unbelieving and the Christian world: those illustrious refugees who have crossed from the camp of Idolatry original: Abgötterey — This refers to the polytheistic worship of the Greco-Roman gods, which Christian writers viewed as the worship of false idols. to the banner of Jesus Christ; those admirable men who, after distinguishing themselves among the pagans original: Heyden with the greatest fame through their extensive knowledge and deep insight, subsequently became the heroes, the protection, and the pride of the Christian name. In the midst of the darkness of pagan superstition into which they were born and raised—within the bosom of a religion that infinitely flattered the senses and favored all passions—a ray of an entirely new light struck their eyes. They perceived, as if through a mist, some traces of the holiness and truths of the Gospel teachings, and discovered in its followers original: Schülern — literally "students" or "disciples." sublime, heroic, almost inconceivable virtues. Struck by all these things, they reflected upon this phenomenon, and