Summa theologica

Definition

The 'Summa Theologica' is a comprehensive work of Christian theology written by the medieval philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas. It systematically explores the relationship between God, humanity, and the moral principles governing life, making it a cornerstone of Catholic theology and influencing Western thought. This work also highlights the intersection of religion and literature by illustrating how theological concepts can be expressed through literary forms and narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 'Summa Theologica' is divided into three main parts: God, Man, and Christ, each exploring different aspects of Christian faith and theology.
2. Aquinas uses a question-and-answer format in the 'Summa', posing objections to his views and providing counter-arguments to demonstrate the depth of his reasoning.
3. This work synthesizes Aristotelian philosophy with Christian doctrine, showcasing how reason and faith can coexist and support one another.
4. The 'Summa Theologica' has been influential not just in religious studies but also in literature, providing themes for numerous literary works exploring moral and existential questions.
5. Aquinas intended the 'Summa' to be accessible for both scholars and laypeople, aiming to educate readers on theological principles and their application to daily life.

Review Questions

• How does Aquinas' use of a question-and-answer format in the 'Summa Theologica' contribute to its role in shaping theological discourse?
  • Aquinas' question-and-answer format in the 'Summa Theologica' fosters an interactive dialogue, allowing readers to engage with complex theological concepts critically. By presenting objections to his arguments before refuting them, Aquinas encourages deeper reflection and understanding. This method not only clarifies his positions but also models a scholarly approach that has influenced both theology and literature by inviting critical examination of faith.
• In what ways does the synthesis of Aristotelian philosophy and Christian doctrine in the 'Summa Theologica' reflect the relationship between religion and literature during the medieval period?
  • The synthesis found in the 'Summa Theologica' exemplifies how medieval thinkers blended philosophical reasoning with religious beliefs. By integrating Aristotelian principles into Christian teachings, Aquinas created a foundation that resonated throughout medieval literature, encouraging writers to explore ethical dilemmas using reasoned arguments. This blend enriched literary narratives with philosophical depth, reflecting the era's values where faith and intellect were deeply intertwined.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the 'Summa Theologica' on contemporary understanding of ethics and morality in both religious and literary contexts.
  • The 'Summa Theologica' has had a profound influence on contemporary ethics and morality, as its exploration of natural law continues to inform discussions about moral philosophy across diverse fields. In literature, themes derived from Aquinas’ teachings are prevalent, challenging characters to navigate ethical choices shaped by faith and reason. This dual legacy highlights how Aquinas’ work transcends its original context, encouraging ongoing dialogue between theology, literature, and moral inquiry in modern society.

Related terms

Scholasticism: A method of critical thought that dominated teaching by the academics (scholastics) of medieval universities in Europe, focusing on dialectical reasoning to extend knowledge by inference.

Natural Law: A moral theory in the philosophy of law that posits the existence of a law whose content is set by nature and that is thus universal. Aquinas incorporated natural law into his ethical framework.

Theology: The study of the nature of God, religious beliefs, and the practice of religion, often involving systematic exploration of sacred texts and doctrines.