Source edition
Tertullian. Quinti Septimii Florentis Tertulliani Quae Supersunt Omnia, Volume 1. Oehler, Franz, editor. Leipzig: Weigel, 1853.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This treatise defends the wearing of the Greek cloak, the pallium, instead of the Roman toga, addressing the citizens of Carthage. The author humorously and ironically points out the contradictions of those who condemn the pallium, drawing on the history of clothing and the constant transmutations found in nature. He contrasts the cumbersome nature and worldly vanity of the toga with the simplicity and philosophical nobility of the pallium. The discourse progresses to argue that the pallium, free from social luxury and moral decadence, serves as a symbol for philosophers who denounce societal vices. Ultimately, the work concludes by declaring that the pallium has been elevated to a sacred communion as the garment of Christians, transcending pagan philosophy.