Antony (251–ca. 356 ce) was an influential monk of early Christianity, who is often considered the father of anchoritic monasticism. His rigorous asceticism contributed to an enduring reputation for holiness during his own lifetime, which only increased after his death with the publication of the popular Life of Antony by Athanasius of Alexandria. Christian monastics in Catholic and Orthodox traditions have viewed him as an exemplar and a model for imitation. Antony's story has influenced Western culture and has been portrayed in art and literature by Rubens, Flaubert, and others.