Augustine
Christian Truth and Fractured Humanity
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Oxford University Press
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This book explores Augustine's influence during the transition from paganism to the Middle Ages, examining how his Christian beliefs challenged classical ideals and shaped Western Christian theology amid late antique society.
Augustine explores the life and influence of St. Augustine, a pivotal figure in the transition from pagan antiquity to the Middle Ages. Born in AD 354 in North Africa, Augustine's journey as a bishop of Hippo and a prolific writer offers valuable insights into how Christianity interacted with and transformed the traditional society of late antiquity. The book delves into Augustine's social and cultural context, highlighting how his beliefs in Christian truth and human fallenness challenged the classical ideals of perfection that had previously dominated philosophical thought.
The author systematically examines the various influences that shaped Augustine's life and thought, emphasizing his engagement with classical philosophical and rhetorical traditions. Augustine's writings reflect his struggle to reconcile these ideals with his Christian faith, revealing the complexities of his theological development. The book also addresses his role as a bishop, navigating the ecclesiastical, ascetic, and political structures of late antique society, which further illustrates the multifaceted nature of his contributions.
Central to Augustine's theology is the concept of Original Sin, which he argues fractures humanity's ability to discern and pursue the good. This idea marks a significant departure from classical philosophical ideals, establishing a foundation for the distinctive theological framework of Western Christendom. Through Augustine's lens, the book provides a thoughtful analysis of how his beliefs not only shaped his own life but also had lasting implications for the evolution of Christian thought and the broader cultural landscape of the time.
It is a brave, honest, and scholarly work which will be of value and interest to a wider range of reader than the students the author envisaged. * Journal of Theological Studies, vol.52, no.2 *
the book is a solid contribution to Augustinian scholarship * Theological Studies *
the book certainly will be a boon, not only to her students, but to any serious students of Augustine, especially in terms of his relation to classical culture and to the society in which he lived * Theological Studies *
To treat the life, thought, and cultural climate of Augustine of Hippo is no small feat; to do it as judiciously and as well as Carol Harrison has here, is remarkable. Here is one of the most thorough and articulate sketches of Augustineis life available today, earning a place on the shelf next to Bonner, Bourke and Brown. * David Vincent Meconi, Journal of Early Christian Studies, 9:2, June 2001 *
Since the writer is a distinguished student of Augustine, scholarly research has not been sacrificed to accessibility, but rather has enhanced it. A long bibliography and clear notes will take interested readers further. The book is easy to read and remarkable for being so comprehensive within the compass of a couple of hundred pages. * Mary Charles-Murray, The Expository Times *
It is a very rich book. * Mary Charles-Murray, The Expository Times *
Carol Harrison is to be congratulated on achieving so much in the small compass of the series volumes ... The happy marriage of teaching and research is especially evident in the sure-footedness with which she selects a place to begin on each issue. The beginner in Augstine studies will notget lost in this book, and the student who has had his writings on the bedside table for many years will find fresh insights. * Dr Gillian Evans, Church Times, 12/01/01. *
I think this book is a success in terms of its purposes, and an enjoyable read. * Dr Gillian Evans, Church Times, 12/01/01. *
ISBN: 9780198752196
Dimensions: 216mm x 138mm x 14mm
Weight: 349g
258 pages