ABSTRACT

The Routledge Guidebook to Aquinas' Summa Theologiae introduces readers to a work which represents the pinnacle of medieval Western scholarship and which has inspired numerous commentaries, imitators, and opposing views. Outlining the main arguments Aquinas utilizes to support his conclusions on various philosophical and theological questions, this clear and comprehensive guide explores:

  • the historical context in which Aquinas wrote
  • a critical discussion of the topics outlined in the text including theology, metaphysics, epistemology, psychology, ethics, and political theory
  • the ongoing influence of the Summa Theologiae in modern philosophy and theology.

Offering a close reading of the original work, this guidebook highlights the central themes of Aquinas’ masterwork and is an essential read for anyone seeking an understanding of this highly influential work in the history of philosophy.

part I|29 pages

General Introduction

chapter 1|28 pages

Thomas Aquinas' Life, Work, and Impact

part II|243 pages

The Exitus/Reditus of the Summa Theologiae

part |89 pages

Metaphysical Starting-Points (Prima Pars)

chapter 2|31 pages

God's Existence and Essence

chapter 3|18 pages

Creation

chapter 4|39 pages

Human Nature

part |105 pages

The Moral Journey (Secunda Pars)

chapter 5|21 pages

The Structure of Human Actions

chapter 6|28 pages

The Morality of Human Actions

chapter 7|18 pages

Virtue and Beatitude, Vice and Sin

part |45 pages

Spiritual End (Tertia Pars and Supplementum)

chapter 10|14 pages

Life and Judgment After Death

part III|22 pages

The Summa Today

chapter 11|21 pages

Contemporary Thomistic Philosophy