Augustine in His Own Words
"An extraordinary introduction to Augustine. The chapters on Augustine as bishop, preacher, and exegete set the controversial and doctrinal writings on the foundations of Augustine's daily practice of theology. William Harmless's own skill as an educator is worthy of his subject."--J. Patout Burns, Edward A. Malloy Professor of Catholic Studies, Vanderbilt University Divinity School"A guided tour through some of the most pertinent and expressive texts of Augustine. Harmless takes the reader on a journey that is thoughtfully planned, fascinating in its breadth and ample detail, and `sure-footed' in its discerning comments about the man, his time, thought, and love."--Allan D. Fitzgerald, O.S.A., Director of the Augustinian Institute at Villanova University"One of the best things to happen in Augustine scholarship in decades. No better guide than Harmless could be found to lead the reader through the profound depths and awe-inspiring heights of Augustine's works and thought. It will become the indispensable companion for any course on Augustine and the first resource for anyone who wants to find out what Augustine has to say, in his own words."--Carol Harrison, Professor of Theology, Durham University"A splendid text. . . . The list of Augustine's works and translations, the chronology of his life, and the select bibliography on the various aspects of his life and work are precisely what a young student needs and older scholars will appreciate."--Roland Teske, Donald J. Schuenke Chair in Philosophy, Marquette University"A perfect introduction for the beginner and an illuminating book for the experienced reader. Harmless uses Augustine's letters, including those newly discovered, to illuminate the literature of controversies while dynamic translations capture Augustine's distinctive Latin style."--Maureen A. Tilley, Visiting Professor of Theology, Fordham University"It takes great hardiness of soul to undertake an anthology of the most prodigious writer of the ancient world. Clearly Harmless is not only hardy of soul but also judicious and discriminating. His book will be of enduring service to novices, experts, and everyone in between."--James Wetzel, Augustinian Chair in the Thought of Saint Augustine, Villanova University"An authoritative, user-friendly field guide to the vast forest of Augustine's writings. Well- chosen, organized, and introduced by a seasoned and savvy teacher, the selections of famous and forgotten passages span from small beauties to breathtaking vistas of Augustine's thought. Though it will please browsers and scholars in different ways, this is above all a teaching book, a bonanza for Augustine's new readers and a godsend for their instructors."--Michael Cameron, Associate Professor of Historical Theology, University of Portland"This deftly-chosen anthology allows direct access to the elegance of Augustine's prose and the lucidity of his thinking. The excellent introduction and extensive suggestions for further reading make the volume very valuable both for students and specialists alike."--John Peter Kenney, Professor of Religious Studies, St. Michael's College