Abstract

The intent of this commentary is to provide an overview of St. Augustine's De Civitate Dei, addressing the coherence of the argument through a close assessment of the structure of the work itself. This task is undertaken by examining the central issues in each section of the work, and by attempting to show how the fundamental order underlying the De Civitate Dei illuminates the argument St. Augustine unfolds for the reader. In the course of his "magnum opus," St. Augustine presents a historical critique of Rome and a theological critique of Greek philosophy, revises the ethical and theological teachings of his predecessors, establishes the groundwork for understanding the role of divine providence in human affairs, and provides the framework for understanding the nature of the demands of political life. ;Chapter One examines the critique of the political and moral character of Rome, and Augustine's rejection of the pagan gods. Chapter Two treats the repudiation of civil theology, and the confrontation with the Platonists. Chapter Three concerns the rise of the two cities, focusing on the role of the will and the nature and consequences of the Fall. Chapter Four follows the "progress" of the two cities from Adam to Christ. Chapter Five focuses on the "ends" of the two cities, including a consideration of the nature and origins of political authority and the political obligations of Christians. ;The Conclusion treats at greater length three themes adumbrated in the commentary. The first is the distinction made by Augustine between the City of God and the Church, and between the City of Man and Rome; contrary to the claims of some, he does not wholly identify either city with any visible entity. Secondly, it treats the question of "political realism" in St. Augustine in light of selected classical authors. Finally, the crown of Augustine's teaching is addressed, the twin commands to love God and your neighbor, with an analysis of how those directives are to be translated into human affairs in concrete terms