The Reception of the Church Fathers in the West: From the Carolingians to the Maurists ed. by Irena Backus
Glenn W. Olsen
The Reception of Fathers in West.From Carolingians to Maurists. Edited by Irena Backus. 2 vols. (Leiden: E.J. Brill. 1997. Pp. xxix, 469; vii, 470-1078. $338.50.) It would be impossible write a comprehensive history reception from Maurists two volumes. What this work gives, rather, is studies select subjects an international group scholars. Each its twenty-six articles written or translated into English. translations are sometimes infelicitous, fairly often have bad grammar and typographical spelling errors, not always aware English conventions. All bibliography. Some cover large topics, some more modest ambition. Their quality ranges pedestrian truly clarifying permanently useful. editor's introduction, which summarizes separate chapters, fully command either materials it describes. One frequently puzzles over whether mistakes fact expression: on page xii, Backus follows Willemien Otten (p. 12) ascribing adoration images Second Council Nicaea. Then, summarizing Jean Werckmeister, she writes regard period before 1200 existence several canon laws given that each [sic] possessed own legislature.Werckmeister's language 51), however, (presumably regional) Church having legislature, but law. also xix) Manfred Schulze's statement 625) Luther performed inestimable scholarly service showing the Fathers. . could mistaken, as if were commonplace Middle Ages. Part One, use patristic sources until 1200, begins with wellinformed precise superficial study place Carolingian theology. usefully examines anthropology. An essay Werckmeister summarizes, especially question marriage, Perhaps vagueness remarks such Gratian did consider union Mary Joseph true marriage 71) due lack sensual dimension attributed translator. better part century ago, Rudolph Sohm thought he saw law after shifting categories sacrament mystery legislation. Intentionally (the discussion clearer), shows contrast what labelled altkatholisch theological was ancient creation eighth twelfth century, during writings played greater role than they after. Except for undefended dating Codex Sinaiticus second E. Ann Matter gives informed Glossa ordinaria. Jacques-Guy Bougerol does same Sentences Peter Lombard, returns Two continue story fine article Auctoritates Scholastic Theology Bonaventure. Burcht Pranger's Anselm's, Abelard's, Bernard's views authority, comparisons common these thinkers, distinctive each, thought-provoking. …
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