ABSTRACT
This chapter explores that Paul's so-called 'unibrow' is better understood as the intellectual 'knitted brow' of antiquity, being more consistent with the portrayal of Paul throughout the Acts of Paul and Thecla (APTh) and also with broader literary and iconographic traditions that present Paul as a philosophic figure. The chapter argues that such an understanding may help shed light on the other physical attributes accorded to him in the APTh. These features can be understood as modeled after the characteristic image of the philosopher, and more specifically those of Socrates. Paul's characterization as a philosopher through his physical appearance lends credibility and authority to his teachings in the narrative. Monika Betz suggests that Paul's physical appearance is not flattering and serves, in part, to make his place holder status clear. She sees Paul as a place holder for the message of Christianity, and thus the immediate object of Thecla's devotion.
