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City of God
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City of God
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
This book may appeal to you if you are interested in the profound philosophical and theological reflections on the nature of society, sin, and salvation. It offers a deep dive into early Christian thought and the relationship between divine providence and human history.
St Augustine, bishop of Hippo, was one of the central figures in the history of Christianity. Written as a defence of the faith at a time when the Roman Empire was on the brink of collapse, this title examines the ancient pagan religions of Rome, the arguments of the Greek philosophers and the revelations of the Bible.
St Augustine, bishop of Hippo, was one of the central figures in the history of Christianity, and City of God is one of his greatest theological works.
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City of God by Saint Augustine of Hippo is a seminal work that has had a profound impact on the history of Western thought. This monumental text, crafted by one of the most influential Church Fathers, stands as a significant synthesis of Christian theology and Platonic philosophy, as interpreted by the philosopher Plotinus.
Written in the aftermath of the sack of Rome by the Visigoths under King Alaric in AD 410, City of God addresses the existential anxiety and confusion of the time. The book is a sweeping defence of Christianity in response to accusations that it was responsible for the decline of Roman power. Augustine contends that the calamity was divine retribution for the Romans' paganism and false worship.
In this complex narrative, Augustine contrasts two symbolic cities: the City of Man, characterised by earthly desires and mortal pursuits, and the City of God, defined by the grace and eternal aspirations toward a divine, heavenly existence. He argues that the ultimate purpose of human history is the realisation of the heavenly city, God's grand design for humanity. The events of earthly history are merely transient and insignificant in comparison to this divine plan.
Among its many themes, Augustine explores profound questions about the nature of good and evil, the existence of free will, and the role of divine providence. The book's structure is notable for its elaborate digressions, allowing Augustine to delve deeply into a variety of topics ranging from philosophy and theology to ethics and politics.
This revised edition retains Henry Bettenson's esteemed translation, ensuring that Augustine's powerful prose and intricate arguments are accessible to contemporary readers. Going beyond mere translation, the edition includes an insightful introduction that situates Augustine within his historical context and analyses the content and lasting influence of City of God.
Whether you are a student of theology, a historian of late antiquity, or simply a seeker of timeless wisdom, City of God offers a profound and enduring exploration of human existence and divine purpose.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
City of God by Saint Augustine is often praised for its profound theological insights and its influence on Western thought. Reviewers appreciate its detailed argumentation against paganism and its vision of a heavenly city. Some find the book challenging but ultimately rewarding for its depth and historical significance.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780140448948
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 27 November 2003
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Classics
Contributors:
- Translated by Henry Bettenson
- Introduction by John O'Meara
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 51.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 197.0mm
Weight: 807g
Pages: 1184
About the Author
St Augustine of Hippo was the great Doctor of the Latin Church. Born in North Africa in AD 354, he was brought up as a Christian and at 16 went to Carthage to finish his education. Until 387, Augustine followed the Manichean religion and founded his own school of rhetoric in Rome. After his baptism, he returned to Africa and lived in the community he formed there until his death in 430. His written output there includes Confessions and City of God, among over 113 books. Henry Bettenson (1908-1979) (translator) was educated at Bristol University and Oriel College, Oxford. He taught Classics for 25 years at Charterhouse 'Documents of the Christian Church' and 'Early Christian Fathers'. Dr Gill Evans (introducer) teaches medieval intellectual history, medieval theology and ecumenical theology in the Faculty of History at Cambridge. She has published widely in this area.
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