Augustine’s memory of the 411 confrontation with Emeritus of Cherchell

During his 418 encounter with former Donatist bishop Emeritus, Augustine of Hippo recalled the 411 defeat of Emeritus, but also the inconsistency of Donatist thinking and behaviour in the years leading up to that 411 confrontation. This point was made again in Augustine’s commentary on it in subsequent years. Augustine’s memory was indeed dynamic. His tenacity in going over the same ground years after 411 demonstrates his determination to overcome Donatist resistance as much by intellectual persuasion and conversion as by judicial victory and imperial enforcement.