Summa Theologica

Definition

The Summa Theologica is a comprehensive theological text written by Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century, aiming to present a systematic account of Christian theology and philosophy. It is organized into three main parts, dealing with God, humanity, and Christ, and it addresses key questions related to faith, reason, ethics, and divine grace. This work has had a profound impact on medieval philosophy and continues to be influential in Christian thought today.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Summa Theologica is divided into three main parts: the first part discusses God and creation, the second part focuses on human nature and morality, and the third part deals with Christ and the sacraments.
2. Aquinas employs a dialectical method, posing questions and objections before providing counterarguments, allowing for a thorough exploration of theological issues.
3. The work was intended as a teaching tool for students preparing for their theological studies, summarizing various theological positions while also presenting Aquinas's own views.
4. Despite being incomplete at the time of Aquinas's death, the Summa Theologica has remained one of the most important texts in Western philosophy and theology.
5. Aquinas's synthesis of Aristotelian philosophy with Christian doctrine in this work significantly shaped medieval thought and influenced later philosophers during the Renaissance and beyond.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the Summa Theologica reflect Aquinas's approach to addressing complex theological questions?
  • The structure of the Summa Theologica is reflective of Aquinas's methodical approach to complex theological questions. By dividing the work into three main parts—God, humanity, and Christ—Aquinas lays out a clear framework for his discussion. Each section systematically explores fundamental concepts in a question-and-answer format, presenting objections to his arguments followed by responses. This allows readers to engage with different viewpoints while understanding Aquinas’s rationale behind his conclusions.
• In what ways did the Summa Theologica contribute to the development of Scholasticism as a method of learning during the medieval period?
  • The Summa Theologica played a pivotal role in the development of Scholasticism by demonstrating how faith and reason can coexist. Aquinas utilized a rigorous questioning method that characterized Scholastic thought, encouraging critical analysis and dialogue around theological issues. His work provided a model for future scholars to follow in their own explorations of philosophy and theology, making it central to the curriculum in medieval universities. The systematic presentation of arguments also helped solidify Scholasticism as an academic discipline.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Summa Theologica on both medieval philosophy and contemporary theological discourse.
  • The Summa Theologica has left a lasting impact on both medieval philosophy and contemporary theological discourse through its comprehensive exploration of Christian theology. Its integration of Aristotelian principles with Christian doctrine not only influenced subsequent medieval thinkers but also established a foundation for modern philosophical inquiry within religious contexts. Today, it remains a critical reference point in debates surrounding ethics, natural law, and the relationship between faith and reason, illustrating its enduring relevance across centuries.

Related terms

Thomism: A philosophical school based on the ideas of Thomas Aquinas, emphasizing the harmony between faith and reason.

Scholasticism:

A method of critical thought prevalent in medieval universities that sought to reconcile faith with reason and systematic theology.

Natural Law:

A moral theory which suggests that human beings possess intrinsic rights and moral obligations derived from nature and reason.