Plotinus and Augustine on the Mid-Rank of Soul: Navigating Two Worlds

Plotinus and Augustine explore the mid-rank of the soul's metaphysical, epistemological, and moral implications, with the soul standing mid-way between God and corporeal natures and between eternity and temporality.

Format: Hardback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

In his profound exploration of the mid-rank of the soul theme in Plotinus and Augustine, Joseph Torchia, OP, delves into the metaphysical, epistemological, and moral implications of this concept for each thinker's intellectual outlooks. For both philosophers, human existence takes on the shape of an extended journey, reminiscent of a protracted voyage, employing nautical imagery that resonates with their philosophical perspectives. Augustine's account incorporates theological significance, addressing the ontological difference between God and creatures. As a rational creature, the soul occupies a pivotal position, standing midway between God and corporeal natures, as well as between eternity and temporality.

Plotinus and Augustine on the Mid-Rank of Soul: Navigating Two Worlds is divided into two parts. Part I explores the significance that Plotinus attributes to the soul's mid-rank within the broader context of his understanding of universal order. Part II delineates Augustine's interpretation of the intermediary status of the soul, drawing upon his spiritual and intellectual peregrinatio, as recounted in the Confessions.

Through his meticulous analysis, Torchia sheds light on the profound interconnectedness between the mid-rank of the soul and the philosophical frameworks of Plotinus and Augustine. He highlights how these thinkers viewed the soul as a bridge between the divine and the human, navigating the complexities of existence and offering insights into the nature of the soul's journey and its role in shaping one's intellectual and spiritual landscape.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of ancient philosophy, providing a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the mid-rank of the soul theme in Plotinus and Augustine. It offers a deeper understanding of these influential thinkers' intellectual achievements and their contributions to the development of Western philosophy. By delving into the metaphysical, epistemological, and moral dimensions of the soul, Torchia's work contributes to our appreciation of the rich tapestry of ancient thought and its enduring relevance to contemporary philosophical discourse.

Weight: 549g
Dimension: 235 x 158 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666928341