The Legacy of Augustine
Module Code: 705TLA Credits: 20 Contact Hours: 20 Level: 7 Lecturer: Tom Herbst OFM
Syllabus
I. The Augustinian legacy in Western theology and spirituality, with a particular emphasis on the synthetic development influential on the Franciscan School. The module begins with a systematic analysis of major themes in Augustinian thought with recourse to primary sources. These include:
- augustine’s experience of conversion with conceptions of introspective illumination.
- the Neo-platonic basis of Augustinian thought with special emphasis on creation, the Fall, and redemption.
- the place of scripture and exegetical methodology in Augustinian thought per his relationship with mentor, Anselm of Milan, and against the Manichaeans.
- developing notions of Ecclesiology and Grace against the Donatists.
- developing notions of freedom, will, Grace and Predestination against Pelagius.
- developing notions of political theory, Church/State relations and analysis of the modern accusation of ‘Augustinian dualism’ in the context of De Civitatis Dei.
II. Continuation of seminal Augustinian themes to their apogee in the High Middle Ages inclusive of:
- the Victorine synthesis with emphasis on the admixture of Dionysian apophaticism.
- articulation and popularisation by Anselm of Canterbury with attendant development of Neo-platonic philosophical themes.
- direct influence on the thirteenth century Franciscan School with particular emphasis on Alexander of Hales and Bonaventure.
- the challenge of Aristotelian systematics.
III. The pervasive influence of Augustinian thought regarding human freedom, will, Grace and Predestination on the Protestant Reformers.
- luther’s exegesis of Romans through an Augustinian lens inclusive of a systematic analysis of faith and justification.
- question for analysis- Was Calvin’s reading of Augustine on Predestination correct?
IV. The modern critique of the Augustinian legacy with analysis of the question as to its continuing relevance in regard to:
- spiritual anthropology.
- psychology.
- rational-empiricial materialsm and the phenomenon of atheism.
Assessment
5,000 word essay.
Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of this module students will have acquired:
- an advanced and critical understanding of the context in which the origin of Augustinian philosophical theology/spirituality occurred.
- familiarity with and analysis of selected primary texts.
- familiarity with and use of relevant secondary texts.
- an ability to articulate and differentiate characteristics within the broad context of the Augustinian legacy as well as distinguish the unique contribution made by Augustine himself.
- critical analysis of special concerns and problems within the complex and evolving synthesis of the Augustinian legacy.
- comparative and critical analysis of the relevance and applicability of the Augustinian legacy within the broader context of the Church, particularly in modern times.
Subject Specific Skills
By the end of this module students will be able to:
- form independent opinions and demonstrate an ability to use evidence appropriately to form conclusions.
- demonstrate a synthetic knowledge of historical, social, philosophical and theological influences that impacted on the development of Augustine’s thought.
- demonstrate an awareness of the often problematic and even contradictory methodologies applicable to the evolution of Augustinian thought and an ability to situate these in relation to this range of methodologies.
- demonstrate an ability to draw on a variety of academic discourses in reflecting critically on the understanding of the Augustinian legacy in relationship to the modern Church.
- make independent and imaginative use of theological and historical information and resources.
- offer clear reflection demonstrated by an understanding of the material presented in lectures and primary and secondary reading.
- demonstrate an advanced ability to present such material, organised in a coherent manner, in written, and/or oral format, with references and bibliography where necessary.
- contribute confidently to group and class discussions.
Transferable Skills
Assessed: Communication: identify relevant sources of information, critically evaluate the material and present their own interpretation in a coherent way, showing an ability to understand complex lines of reasoning
IT: use IT effectively to aid efficient searching, evaluation and selection of information and to present work using a format and style to suit the purpose, subject and audience
Problem solving: select information effectively to tackle a particular issue or problem and present information clearly and accurately, with evidence to support their conclusions
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