Anselm of Canterbury

Anselm of Canterbury was an Italian Benedictine monk, philosopher, and prelate of the Catholic Church who served as the archbishop of Canterbury from 1093 to 1109. He is best known for his ontological argument for the existence of God and his works in theology and philosophy, which have had a lasting influence on Christian thought.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Proslogion

    An Address on God's Existence

    This philosophical and theological work presents a meditation on the existence and nature of God, primarily through the formulation of the ontological argument. The text explores the idea that God is "that than which nothing greater can be conceived," asserting that such a being must exist in reality because existence in reality is greater than existence solely in the mind. Through a series of reflections, the author seeks to deepen the understanding of faith, emphasizing the harmony between reason and belief, and inviting readers to contemplate the divine attributes and the necessity of God's existence.

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  2. 2. The Passion Of Christ Through The Eyes Of Mary

    This poignant narrative delves into the profound and heart-wrenching experience of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she witnesses the suffering and crucifixion of her son. Through her eyes, readers are invited to explore the depths of maternal love, grief, and unwavering faith amidst the harrowing events of the Passion. The story offers a unique perspective on the emotional and spiritual turmoil that Mary endures, highlighting her strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable sorrow, while also providing a deeper understanding of the human and divine aspects of the Passion.

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  3. 3. The Major Works

    This collection encapsulates a profound exploration of medieval theological and philosophical thought, presenting a series of writings that delve into the nature of God, the existence of divine attributes, and the relationship between faith and reason. The works articulate a rational approach to understanding religious beliefs, most notably through the ontological argument for the existence of God, which posits that the very concept of a supreme being necessitates its existence. The text also addresses the intricacies of atonement, free will, and the human soul, offering a comprehensive insight into the intellectual rigor and spiritual depth of its time.

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  4. 4. Proslogium

    Faith Seeking Understanding

    This philosophical and theological work presents a profound meditation on the existence and nature of God, articulated through the famous ontological argument. The text explores the concept of God as "that than which nothing greater can be conceived," positing that such a being must exist in reality because existence in reality is greater than existence in the mind alone. Through a series of reflections and logical reasoning, the author seeks to demonstrate the necessity of God's existence, inviting readers to engage with the divine mystery through faith and reason.

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