The Medieval Theologians: An Introduction to Theology in the Medieval Period
Ian Christopher Levy
Medieval Theologians: An Introduction to Theology in the Period. Edited by G. R. Evans. Oxford: Blackwell, 2001. xx + 383 pp. $76.95 (cloth); $39.95 (paper). This collection of twenty-two essays covering major medieval theologians, movements, and issues appropriately begins ends with reflections on St. Augustine. For as writers these (Rist Rorem) rightly observe, one could scarcely make sense theology apart from that fifth-century bishop Hippo. It is fitting, therefore, cover this handsome volume features Gozzoli's famous fifteenth-century fresco, baptized Ambrose. Yet Rist makes quite clear opening essay, Augustine Middle Ages, through whom much classical world was filtered succeeding generations, not necessarily 11 authentic Many rough edges were smoothed out quest for consistency; many questions still continued struggle treated thoroughly resolved. But ultimately beside point: Augustine's legacy both what he did, said, intended, assumed have meant (p. 22). broken into five sections, each which comprised several penned some foremost authorities historical theology: Louth, Kannengiesser, Colish, just name a few. first section The End Ancient World, followed Carolingians Renaissance?, High Debate, Dissent. A conclusion Evans Rorem points way Reformation, itself topic Blackwell's latest within its Great Theologians series. While present billed an introduction viewed their proper intellectual context, are erudite. They especially effective when they focus specific or work broader landscape, thereby offering sort detailed analysis will enhance reader's understanding root underpinning otherwise vast terrain. Addressing Academic Controversies, Shogimen principally concerned changing role late theologians respect ecclesiastical authority. Rather than presenting laundry list debated condemned propositions, studies came assert right judge heresy orthodoxy, even point censuring pope himself. examining Godfrey Fontaines before turning his attention primarily towards theories accountability conscience according Olivi Ockham, read here context Franciscan poverty controversy Pope John XXII's disastrous remarks about beatific vision. …
Anglican theological review