Bede and the Cosmos - Theology and Nature in the Eighth Century

Bede and the Cosmos examines Bede's cosmology-his understanding of the universe and its laws. It explores his ideas regarding both the structure and mechanics of the created world and the relationship of that world to its Creator. Beginning with On the Nature of Things and moving on to survey his writings in other genres, it demonstrates the key role that natural philosophy played in shaping Bede's worldview, and explores the ramifications that this had on his cultural, theological and historical thought. From questions about angelic bodies and the destruction of the world at judgement day, to subtle arguments about free will and the meaning of history, Bede's fascinating and unique engagement with the natural world is explored in this comprehensive study.

List of contents

1. Background and Context;  2. De natura rerum and the Topography of the Cosmos;  3. Bede's Cosmogony: Creation, Perfection, Decline;  4. Soul and Body;  5. Aetherial Angels and Aerial Demons;  6. God and Creation;  7. Heaven, Hell and the Interim;  8. The End of the World and After;  9. Conclusion

About the author

Eoghan Ahern is based in the Institute of Irish Studies in the University of Liverpool. He researches late ancient and early medieval intellectual history, with a particular focus on the Insular world. He has published on subjects such as miracles, the idea of decline in late antique historiography and sexual sin in early Christian thought.

Summary

Bede and the Cosmos examines Bede’s cosmology—his understanding of the universe and its laws. From questions about angelic bodies to subtle arguments about free will and the meaning of history, Bede’s fascinating and unique engagement with the natural world is explored in this comprehensive study.

Product details

• Authors: Eoghan Ahern
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 29.04.2022
• EAN: 9780367511555
• ISBN: 978-0-367-51155-5
• No. of pages: 298
• Series: Studies in Early Medieval Britain and Ireland
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Education > School education, didactics, methodology; Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Religion: general, reference works; PHILOSOPHY / General, HISTORY / General, History of Religion, Medieval History, History and Archaeology, C 500 CE To C 1000 CE, Western philosophy: Medieval & Renaissance, c 500 to c 1600, Medieval Western philosophy, EDUCATION / Teaching / Subjects / Arts & Humanities