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1.5 - The Concept of Theology

from I - Concepts

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 January 2021

By
Olivier Boulnois
Edited by
Alexander J. B. Hampton  and
John Peter Kenney
Alexander J. B. Hampton
Affiliation:
University of Toronto
John Peter Kenney
Affiliation:
Saint Michael's College, Vermont
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Summary

One of the most remarkable contributions of the Middle Ages to Western thought is the invention of theology as a rational science of faith. This chapter traces the origin of the concept of theologia. By examining the works of Dionysius the Areopagite, John Scotus Eriugena, and Boethius, it is possible to arrive at a picture of how theology came to be used to designate a Christian discipline, and the field for the rational interpretation of faith.

Keywords

theologyDionysius the AreopagiteJohn Scotus EriugenaBoethius
Type
Chapter
Information
Christian Platonism
A History
 , pp. 101 - 121
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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