Augustine on Apollinarism and the Humanity of Christ: Reconfiguring Christology and Anthropology

Abstract This article examines the evolving role of Apollinarism in Augustine’s theology, arguing that during his life Augustine not only reinterpreted its theological significance but also revised his own understanding of the doctrines it comprises. While his early writings treat Apollinarism as a denial of Christ’s rational soul and physiological integrity, his later works—especially in the context of the Pelagian controversy—recast it as a rejection of Christ’s predestined humanity and moral will. This shift reflects Augustine’s broader theological development, particularly his increasing emphasis on grace and the fallen condition of the human will. By tracing this transformation, the article offers new insight into the theological function of Apollinarism in Augustine’s Christology and highlights the interplay between doctrinal reception, polemics, and the unfolding of his mature soteriology.