Essential Letters

Reviews

“Availing himself of Fr. Teske’s artful translation of Augustine’s letters, Przemyslaw Nehring has come up with an essential selection, thematically arranged. It is a selection, when read alongside Nehring’s introduction and Teske’s notes, that well situates the saint’s theological genius within a late antique, Roman North African context. The Augustine of the letters is less grandiose than the Augustine of the great works, but no less illuminating or complex. Go to the letters to find your way into the social intelligence of the doctor of grace. For students of Augustine—both aspiring and seasoned—this is a volume to be savored.”
--James Wetzel, Augustinian Chair, Villanova University

“In his marvelous letters, you meet Augustine the pastor, Augustine the activist, Augustine the counselor and friend. I’m so thrilled that we finally have a volume like this as a gateway to experience the marvelously human saint.”
--James K.A. Smith, professor of philosophy, Calvin University and author of On the Road with Saint Augustine

“This selection of Augustine’s letters provides an excellent resource for students and scholars alike, deepening readers’ understanding of his thought on central themes through his correspondence, which is often impassioned and lyrical. The letters are personally expressive, but they also address practical matters of ethical, political, and ecclesial importance – a key complement to Augustine’s more formal texts.”
--Sarah Stewart-Kroeker, Assistant Professor of Theological Ethics at the University of Geneva

About the Author

Augustine of Hippo is one of the greatest thinkers and writers in the Western world. After he became Christian he was made bishop of Hippo in Africa where he was influential in civil and church affairs. With more than 100 books, 200 letters and 500 sermons, he has left a lasting impact on Western philosophy and culture. His classic and best-selling works include The Confessions, The Trinity, The City of God, and Teaching Christianity.