Augustine: Major Writings (Crossroad Spiritual Legacy Series)

by Benedict J. Groeschel

Book Overview

Benedict Groeschel distills Augustine's many writings and presents the essence of the ideas within. Further he places the man and his writings in historical perspective. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0824525051
• Release Date: July 1995
• Publisher: The Crossroad Publishing Company
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.3" x 0.5" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Great teaching material, Very easy to read

I searched far and wide for text material for a Bible class that consisted of folks not at all familiar with Augustine. I found three general categories while looking: 1) translations - much too deep 2) Interpretation of the work with very few quotes 3) Biographical or 'softball'. This book struck a very happy medium where Fr. Groeschel clearly outlines and explains portions of Augustine's writings with generous portions of actual quotes. The quotes were very carefully selected out of the volumes and volumes of possibilities since they were the best representations of Augustine's teachings based on making many attempts to pull out quotes myself. The flow is exceptional as topic leads to topic with well outlined sections that could be covered sequentially or stand alone. The chapters are well crafted since they cover all major areas of Augustine's work. Even though the writing is clear it does not state things in absolute terms but, rather, leads the reader to form their own interpretation and to look more deeply into the subject. Since this is very easy to read, except perhaps the more philosophical section on knowledge, wisdom, etc., it proves to be both enjoyable and educational. Even though only a portion of this book was covered in the class, many have read the entire tome because the writing style is inviting and 'down to earth'. This material certainly intensifies the desire to look more closely at Augustine's works as Fr. Groeschel had hoped. I heartily recommend this book for anyone new to Augustine because Fr. Groeschel has captured some wonderful nuggets from the writings of a extraordinary man.

Simple Introduction to the Complex Augustine

Fr. Groeschel seems to empathize with the average individual who makes an attempt to read St. Augustine. The language can be difficult as the author exemplifies, and deciphering various translations can make an already lofty subject seem even more complex. This book is extremely humble in composition; Groeschel knows that his primary audience isn't the theologian, and his writings on Augustine are extremely accessible.If you've read Augustine and want a more full, deep understanding of his writings, give this book a read.

A newbie to Augustine loved it!

A great introduction to the writings of St. Augustine. What is also wonderful about the book is he traces different aspects of St. Augustine's personality such as "Augustine as a mystic" and gives excerpts supporting his conclusions.