Abstract
This article explores the many different motivations as to why Augustine deals with the Neo-Platonist, Porphyry, in The City of God. It places Augustine’s treatment of Porphyry in the general theological and political context (such as that given in books 1-6 of this work), as well as the context of Augustine’s treatment of Platonism in book 8. It also gives a portrait of Porphyry, reconstructed by modern Porphyrian scholars. A brief exposition will be given of Augustine’s treatment of Porphyry and his refutation of this philosopher’s involvement with theurgy from book 10. The main questions here seek to better understand the extensiveness and vehement tone of this church father’s refutation of this particular philosopher.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Studia Patristica |
| Subtitle of host publication | ‘Augustine of Hippo’s De ciuitate Dei : Content, Transmission, and Interpretations’ |
| Editors | Anthony Dupont, Gert Partoens |
| Publication status | Accepted/In press - 2021 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Augustine, City of God, Porphyrius