Few thinkers have influenced Western thought and culture as much as Augustine. This interdisciplinary seminar examines this influence through close reading of primary texts, including “Confessions” and “City of God”, but also some very revealing sermons and letters. Attention is given to “classical” interpretations and a variety of critics who wrestle with his contested legacy for their constructive purposes. Topics include the self, political authority and citizenship, coercion and violence, sexuality, secularity and liberalism, eschatology, empire, and the nature of tradition.
