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The Thomistic Institute
Flannery O'Connor and St. Thomas Aquinas on the Future of Catholic Fiction | Prof. Patrick Callahan
Oct 28, 2024
Patrick Callahan, Director of the Newman Institute for Catholic Thought & Culture, discusses Flannery O'Connor's unique literary path influenced by her Southern upbringing and struggles with lupus. He reveals her dual identity as a 'hillbilly Thomist,' highlighting the impact of St. Thomas Aquinas on her beliefs and writing. The conversation dives into Aquinas's philosophy of beauty and the practical intellect, as well as O'Connor's complex style that challenges idealism, offering a rich examination of authenticity in art.
37:12
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Quick takeaways
- Flannery O'Connor humorously identified as a 'hillbilly Thomist,' highlighting her deep admiration and engagement with St. Thomas Aquinas' philosophical ideas.
- O'Connor's artistic philosophy emphasizes that true art evokes wonder and engages with deeper human truths, challenging readers' perceptions of beauty and sacredness.
Deep dives
Flannery O'Connor's Early Life and Literary Journey
Flannery O'Connor was born in Savannah, Georgia, in 1925, and faced significant personal challenges early in life, including the death of her father. After moving to a rural farmhouse in Milledgeville, Georgia, she graduated from Georgia State College for Women in 1945. A pivotal moment in her literary career occurred when O'Connor attended the University of Iowa's Writers' Workshop, a crucial period during which she honed her craft alongside other influential writers. Despite battling lupus for nearly a decade, she produced impactful writings and maintained a vibrant correspondence with prominent literary figures, preserving insights into her spiritual and artistic development.
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