Augustine on the Nature of Virtue and Sin

Augustine of Hippo is a key figure in the history of Christianity and has had a profound impact on the course of western moral and political thought. Katherine Chambers' book explores a neglected topic in Augustinian studies, demonstrating that Augustine's moral thought builds on the dominant approach to ethics in classical pagan antiquity and that he was not a political pessimist or realist.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Augustine of Hippo, a pivotal figure in the history of Christianity, has left an indelible mark on the development of western moral and political thought. In this comprehensive exploration, Katherine Chambers delves into a previously overlooked aspect of Augustine's studies, offering a systematic account of his interpretation of virtue, vice, and sin. Contrary to the notion that Augustine departed from classical eudaimonism, Chambers demonstrates that his moral philosophy is deeply rooted in the prevailing ethical approach of classical pagan antiquity. A critical evaluation of this tradition reveals that Augustine remained steadfast in his commitment to the eudaimonist ethical framework. Furthermore, Chambers challenges the prevailing view that Augustine was a political pessimist or realist, arguing that this interpretation is based on a misinterpretation of his ideas about the virtue of justice. By providing a coherent account of key features in Augustine's ethics, her study invites a fresh and insightful reevaluation of his profound influence on western moral and political thought.

Weight: 644g
ISBN-13: 9781009383783