Augustinian theology of W.H. Auden, The
Book Description
When renowned poet W.H. Auden embraced Christianity in the early 1940s, he discovered in the ancient writings of St. Augustine a profound framework for understanding both human nature and spiritual truth. This scholarly exploration reveals how Augustine's theological insights became a cornerstone of Auden's mature literary and spiritual development.
Stephen J. Schuler demonstrates how Auden found in Augustine a kindred spirit who masterfully wove together psychological insight, philosophical inquiry, and theological wisdom. This integration of inner reflection with broader spiritual understanding deeply influenced Auden's approach to both poetry and faith, offering him what he termed an "existential" method of spiritual exploration that honored human subjectivity while reaching toward transcendent truth.
The study illuminates how Augustine's concept of privation helped Auden articulate the nature of evil and suffering, particularly relevant during the anxieties of World War II. Augustine's affirmation of the physical world's inherent goodness also resonated with Auden's own spiritual intuitions, while providing a theological foundation for grappling with complex questions of love, sexuality, and human relationships.
Through careful analysis of Auden's poetry and prose, Schuler reveals how Augustinian thought shaped the poet's understanding of community, identity, and the ethical dimensions of artistic creation. This work offers valuable insights for anyone interested in how ancient spiritual wisdom can inform modern creative expression and personal spiritual development.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)
📄 Length: 213 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Influence (Literary, artistic, etc.)
- ✓ Explore Influence
- ✓ Explore Theology in literature
- ✓ Explore Auden, w. h. (wystan hugh), 1907-1973
- ✓ Explore Theologie
- ✓ Explore Augustine, saint, bishop of hippo, 354-430
- ✓ Explore Religion
- ✓ Explore Christianity and literature
