2. How is the conversion of Victorinus, told in this book, a model for Augustine's own conversion?
Augustine's conversion reflects that of Victorinus in that there was a transitional distinction between being nominally christian and real salvation. For Victorinus, he considered himself a "christian", yet he still revelled and associated in the pagan rituals of Rome, popular among his friends. One of Victorinus's true Christian friends confronted him of his duality. Later, Victorinus sees the downfall of his ways and rejects the Roman paganism completely, isolating himself from some of his friends. Augustine in a similar way saw christianity as a philosophical answer rather than a personal divine relationship. His duality was solved when he also made his official conversion to Christianity, breaking the ties with his secular friends in Rome. The duality in both Victorinus and Augustine is not tolerated at all in Christianity, where it might be tolerated in eastern religions at that time, such as Zoroastrianism, if not outrightly encouraged. Duality is even encouraged today in religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism, claiming multiple ways to Truth. However, Christianity clearly claims one way only, and in the words of Governor Danforth, "there be no road in between".
Very insightful response. I am particularly impressed by your comments regarding the singular commitment that is so crucial in Christianity. I think it is also interesting to think about the literary effect of the paralleled conversion of Victorinus and Augustine. The way in which Victorinus's conversion prefigures Augustine's serves to build the dramatic tension in the narrative, leading to the climax of the "pick it up and read" episode in the garden.
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