Ranging from his early treatises, the Monologion (a work written to show his monks how to meditate on the divine essence) and the Proslogion (best known for its advancement of the so-called ontological argument for the existence of God), to his three philosophical dialogues on metaphysical topics such as the relationship between freedom and sin, and late treatises on the Incarnation and salvation, this collection of Anselm's essential writings will be a boon to students of the history of philosophy and theology as well as to anyone interested in examining what Anselm calls "the reason of faith."
Thomas Williams is Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, University of South Florida.
Williams' translations are scrupulously faithful and accurate without being slavishly literal, and yet are graceful to both the eye and ear. --Paul Vincent Spade, Department of Philosophy, Indiana University
Williams has a knack for producing translations that both convey an accurate sense of the author's original writing style and that read smoothly in idiomatic English. --Christina Van Dyke, in Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews
This important rendition of the primary sources is both faithful in its interpretation and thoroughly comprehensible. To aid the reader along the way, Williams provides a glossary of key terms, in which he elucidates and contextualizes the most salient themes that arise throughout the primary text. Furthermore, he offers a succinct preliminary biographical sketch of Anselm, which is followed by a select bibliography for further reading. As such, the work is well suited for use as a course textbook. To be sure, students and instructors alike will appreciate its critical integrity and affordability. Thomas Williams should be highly commended for his masterful contribution to the field of theology and medieval studies. For the many who are sure to read it, his work will not only prove satisfying, but will also ingrain the merits of St. Anselm's writings for years to come. --Joseph W. Cunningham, Nazarene Theological College, University of Manchester
