Thomas Merton on Augustine, Jerome, and Ambrose: Philosophy of the Great Latin Fathers

Audio Sample:

In Christianity’s early years, three men laid the groundwork for the budding religion’s philosophy, theology, and learning. Seven centuries later, a spiritual visionary taught gripping classes on these Church Fathers.

Thomas Merton on Augustine, Jerome, and Ambrose transports these gems from the archives to the public for the first time. Recorded in 1962, the set collects five conferences Thomas Merton gave to the novices at the Abbey of Gethsemani. Taking a seat in Merton’s classroom, you will explore the Doctors of the Church who shaped Western philosophy.

Why study the foundational texts of Christian thought? Merton prefaces his talks by answering this question. Because they form the basis of the contemplative and learned life, these works are vital to his brothers’ vocation. The same holds true for anyone who wants to foster critical thinking and an appreciation of the liberal arts.

You will begin with an introduction to the foremost philosopher of Christian antiquity—Saint Augustine—and his classic On Christian Doctrine. Parsing Augustine’s complex theology into accessible talks, Merton shows you his core ideas. Before taking a deeper dive into Augustine, you will turn to the mystical humanism of Saint Ambrose. Next, you will examine St. Jerome’s letters, which rank among the most important Christian texts.

As entertaining as he is knowledgeable, Merton connects with students through humorous anecdotes. His passionate teaching will both inform you and instill a lifelong love of philosophy.

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***“Photograph of Thomas Merton by Sibylle Akers. Used with Permission of the Merton Legacy Trust and the Thomas Merton Center at Bellarmine University.  These recordings are from the archives of the Thomas Merton Center at Bellarmine University, in Louisville, Kentucky.