Review by Choice Review
Broad treatments of Thomas Aquinas are in ample supply. The Cambridge Companion to Aquinas, edited by Norman Kretzmann and Eleonore Stump (1993), is one among many. In focusing on the Summa Theologiae alone, the present volume joins single-authored works by Frederick Christian Bauerschmidt, Brian Davies, Stephen Loughlin, et alia but offers multiple interpretive perspectives while focusing on explicitly theological issues. The first of the book's three parts is devoted to the nature, method, and purpose of Aquinas's text and the relation of Scripture to philosophy. The second, most substantial part comprises diverse essays on themes in the Summa, such as God, the Trinity, eternity, providence, virtue, grace, redemption, and the sacraments. The third and final part--intended to give weight to the Summa's historical and contemporary relevance within a broader range of Christian theological traditions--includes chapters on Catholic, Orthodox, Reformed, and non-Abrahamic traditions, notably Hinduism and Buddhism. Contributions vary in approach and perspective, but on the whole the collection is helpful and authoritative. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals. --Philip E. Blosser, Sacred Heart Major Seminary
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
