Extracted from Arthur Penrhyn Stanley’s Lectures on the History of the Eastern Church, this booklet represents lectures two through five, dealing directly with the Council of Nicea. After considering the sources for the Council, Stanley considers its Oriental character and its general interests as well as its role as a first example of a general council. Noting the Arian controversy that largely occasioned the meeting, Stanley considers the particulars of where it met, how delegates arrived, and the list of who these delegates were. Summarizing the preliminary discussions, he then explores in some detail the opening of the Council with the arrival of the Emperor and the concerns of the bishops. The theological disputes are considered before Stanley spends his efforts on the conclusion and outcome of the Council. Contrasting legendary and historical accounts, Stanley attempts to set the record straight regarding the decisions, individuals, and events of this historic gathering.

Arthur Penrhyn Stanley (1815-1881) was educated at Oxford and became a clergyman in the Church of England. He was a tutor then Regius Professor at Oxford and went on to become the Dean of Westminster. He wrote several books during his career.