Anselm: Basic Writings

Ranging from his early treatises, the Monologion (a work written to show his monks how to meditate on the divine essence) and the Proslogion (best known for its advancement of the so-called ontological argument for the existence of God), to his three philosophical dialogues on metaphysical topics such as the relationship between freedom and sin, and late treatises on the Incarnation and salvation, this collection of Anselm's essential writings will be a boon to students of the history of philosophy and theology as well as to anyone interested in examining what Anselm calls "the reason of faith."

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Anselm
Translated, with Introduction, by Thomas Williams

2007 - 448 pp.

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Cloth 978-0-87220-896-4
$42.00
Paper 978-0-87220-895-7
$15.00
Instructor Examination (Review) Copy 978-0-87220-895-7
$3.00

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Ranging from his early treatises, the Monologion (a work written to show his monks how to meditate on the divine essence) and the Proslogion (best known for its advancement of the so-called ontological argument for the existence of God), to his three philosophical dialogues on metaphysical topics such as the relationship between freedom and sin, and late treatises on the Incarnation and salvation, this collection of Anselm's essential writings will be a boon to students of the history of philosophy and theology as well as to anyone interested in examining what Anselm calls "the reason of faith."

Reviews:

"Williams' translations are scrupulously faithful and accurate without being slavishly literal, and yet are graceful to both the eye and ear."
     —Paul Vincent Spade, Department of Philosophy, Indiana University

 "Williams has a knack for producing translations that both convey an accurate sense of the author's original writing style and that read smoothly in idiomatic English."
     —Christina Van Dyke, in Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews

 "This important rendition of the primary sources is both faithful in its interpretation and thoroughly comprehensible.  To aid the reader along the way, Williams provides a glossary of key terms, in which he elucidates and contextualizes the most salient themes that arise throughout the primary text.  Furthermore, he offers a succinct preliminary biographical sketch of Anselm, which is followed by a select bibliography for further reading.  As such, the work is well suited for use as a course textbook.  To be sure, students and instructors alike will appreciate its critical integrity and affordability.  Thomas Williams should be highly commended for his masterful contribution to the field of theology and medieval studies.  For the many who are sure to read it, his work will not only prove satisfying, but will also ingrain the merits of St. Anselm's writings for years to come."
     —Joseph W. Cunningham, Nazarene Theological College, University of Manchester

 

Contents:

Introduction:
     Suggestions for Further Reading.
     Acknowledgements.
     A Note on the Translation.

Monologion
Proslogion
Gaunilo's Reply on Behalf of the Fool
Anselm's Reply to Gaunilo

[Three Philosophical Dialogues]:

  • On Truth
  • On Freedom of Choice
  • On the Fall of the Devil

Letter On the Incarnation of the Word
Cur Deus Homo
On the Virginal Conception, and on Original Sin
On the Harmony of God's Foreknowledge, Predestination, and Grace with Free Choice (De concordia)
The Lambeth Fragments

Glossary
Index

 

About the Author:

Thomas Williams is Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, The University of South Florida.