Introduction to Augustine of Hippo

This course introduces Augustine of Hippo (A.D. 354- 430) as an influential philosopher and theologian as well as a North African pastor in the Roman Empire. We will trace Augustine's life from birth to youth, then from his education, 'conversion' to ordination as bishop, then his later days till death, with the relevant historical and social contexts introduced along the way. In addition, this course will cover the basics of his philosophy/theology on freedom and grace, salvation and predestination, ecclesiology and liturgy, and, perhaps the most important of all, trinity, and how Augustine develops his theology in polemic responses to the Manicheans, Donatists and Pelagians.