Homilies on the Gospel of John 1-40
by Saint Augustine
GoodBookStall Review:
This is the first of two volumes of Augustine's 124 'tractates' on St John's Gospel, the only commentary on this Gospel in ancient Latin literature. They were delivered as homilies or sermons, between 406 and 421 (or later). Their 'rediscovery' will be appreciated. Those who have been put off by other works of Augustine - or by their translations - are encouraged to try him again. Augustine 'interprets [the Gospel] according to the socio-cultural experiences and the thought patterns of his people.' (p. 18); the 'Introduction' gives an excellent background to the homilies. While unable to compare the text with the original Latin, it is evident that great care has been taken to translate accurately what Augustine said, and, importantly, to convey his style of delivery, which is intimate and reflects his pastoral concern. The homilies are primarily catechetical, and not polemical (p.35), Augustine '...sharing with his listeners what had already nourished him.' (p. 36). Including the congregation with him, 'He clearly trusts them - and...entrusts himself to their ability to question with him, to search with him.' (p.19). There is a 'Bibliography' after the 'Introduction'; 'Complete indexes' are promised in volume two.
Reviewer: J.Nicholas Latham (01/02/10)
This is the first of two volumes of Augustine's 124 'tractates' on St John's Gospel, the only commentary on this Gospel in ancient Latin literature. They were delivered as homilies or sermons, between 406 and 421 (or later). Their 'rediscovery' will be appreciated. Those who have been put off by other works of Augustine - or by their translations - are encouraged to try him again. Augustine 'interprets [the Gospel] according to the socio-cultural experiences and the thought patterns of his people.' (p. 18); the 'Introduction' gives an excellent background to the homilies. While unable to compare the text with the original Latin, it is evident that great care has been taken to translate accurately what Augustine said, and, importantly, to convey his style of delivery, which is intimate and reflects his pastoral concern. The homilies are primarily catechetical, and not polemical (p.35), Augustine '...sharing with his listeners what had already nourished him.' (p. 36). Including the congregation with him, 'He clearly trusts them - and...entrusts himself to their ability to question with him, to search with him.' (p.19). There is a 'Bibliography' after the 'Introduction'; 'Complete indexes' are promised in volume two.
Reviewer: J.Nicholas Latham (01/02/10)
