Many Mansions: An Introduction to the Development and Diversity of Medieval Theology

by David N Bell, Terryl N Kinder

Overview

In the theological skies of both the Greek and the Latin Church between the seventh and the fourteenth centuries usually know as the Middle Ages, a number of remarkable men appeared. They centered their lives in Christ and searched for an understanding of the faith which they shared and which their forebears had carefully explained over the first five centuries of Christianity. 

Yet in the process of trying to understand christian doctrine, the two great halves of Christendom grew apart. Differences in language and events led to differences of emphasis, teaching and practice, and sometimes to conflict. 

Written for readers with no background in theology or medieval history, Many Mansions brings to life this colorful and exciting period in the history of the Church. Understandings and misunderstandings which continue into the present day are carefully treated in easily understood terms. Illustrations taken from the periods and places under discussion provide visual reinforcement to the narrative.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780879075460
Publisher:	Cistercian Publications
Publication date:	10/01/2000
Series:	Cistercian Studies , #146
Pages:	384
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.40(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

David N. Bell is professor emeritus of religious studies and dean of theology at Queen's College, St. John's, Newfoundland, and canon theologian in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in St. John's. He is the author of a number of books published by Cistercian Publications, including Handmaid of the Lord: Mary, the Cistercians, and Armand-Jean de Rancé (CS293, 2021), Everyday Life at La Trappe under Armand-Jean de Rancé (CS274, 2018), and A Saint in the Sun: Praising Saint Bernard in the France of Louis XIV (CS271, 2017).

Table of Contents

Table of Contents
Introduction   7
A Note on the Illustrations   12
     I Developments in the West   19
    II Developments in the East: The road to Schism   39
   III Monks and Monasticism   59
   IV Faith and Reason   83
   V The Limits of Reason   101
   VI Beyond Reason: Medieval Heresy   119
  VII Understanding the Trinity   137
 VIII Experiencing the Trinity  155
   IX God and his Light: the Hesychast Controversy   173
    X The Procession of the Holy Spirit   193
   XI Why Did God Become Human?   209
  XII How Did God Become Human?   225
 XIII The Veneration of the Virgin   243
 XIV Incarnation and Icons   267
  XV The Mystery of the Eucharist   285
 XVI Channels of Grace   305
XVII Vessels of Wrath and Vessels of Mercy   323
XVIII Last Things   341
Index   361