About the book: 2001 / The book for the first time introduces the Russian reader to the literature of Christian Egypt (the so-called Coptic), the history of which spans several centuries, starting from the 4th century. Coptic literature coexisted with Greek Christian literature common to the entire Middle East; Its main genres are legends, apocrypha, and didactic works. The book presents samples of these works, the introduction gives a brief outline of the history of the Copts and their literature.***CONTENTSCopts and their literature Sayings of the Egyptian fathers Life of Shenoute, compiled by Besa From the works of Shenoute On the invasion of the nomads Against Kronos Message to Iraklammon About work On the repentance of sinners Apocalypse of Elijah Apocryphon of the Prophet Jeremiah Fragment of the Romance of Cambyses Homilia of the Archangel Michael Martyrius St. Victor The Legend of Eudoxia The Legend of Hilaria From Gnostic writings The Origin of the World The Essence of the Archons The Revelation of Adam Triple Protennoia