The surviving bulk of Augustine's writings exceeds that of any other ancient author. Through these writings he came to influence not only his contemporaries but also the subsequent development of Western culture. This Very Short Introduction traces the development of Augustine's thought, discussing his reaction to the thinkers before him, and themes such as freedom, creation, and the Trinity.
Augustine was arguably the greatest early Christian philosopher. His teachings had a profound effect on Medieval scholarship, Renaissance humanism, and the religious controversies of both the Reformation and the Counter-Reformation. Here, Henry Chadwick places Augustine in his philosophical and religious context and traces the history of his influence on Western thought, both within and beyond the Christian tradition. A handy account to one of the greatest religious thinkers, this Very Short Introduction is both a useful guide for the one who seeks to know Augustine and a fine companion for the one who wishes to know him better.
Recenzijos
magisterial and highly readable. * Bookseller *
List of illustrations1. The formation of Augustine's mind: Cicero, Mani, Plato, Christ2. Liberal arts3. Free choice4. A philosophical society5. Vocation6. Confessions7. Unity and division8. Creation and the Trinity9. City of God10. Nature and graceFurther readingIndex
Henry Chadwick, formerly Regius Professor Emeritus of Divinity at the University of Cambridge. Among his other books are Early Christian Thought and the Classical Tradition, Priscillian of Avila, and Boethius: The Consolations of Music, Logic, Theology, and Philosophy (all published by OUP). He has also published an annotated translation of Augustine's Confessions (Oxford World's Classics), and, with his brother Owen, is General Editor of the Oxford History of the Christian Church.