Catholic Saints
St. Anselm of Canterbury
Apr 21, 2025
Join Elizabeth Klein, a theology professor, as she dives into the life of St. Anselm of Canterbury, a towering figure in medieval theology. Discover his groundbreaking work 'Cur Deus Homo' and the ontological argument for God's existence. Klein discusses Anselm's struggles with King William II and his relentless commitment to reform within the church. The conversation also touches on the evolution of ecclesiastical authority and the profound lessons of faith we can learn from saints like Anselm amidst historical turmoil.
20:07
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Quick takeaways
- St. Anselm of Canterbury's resistance to secular authority during the investiture controversy exemplifies the struggle for church autonomy in medieval times.
- His theological insights, particularly in 'Cur Deus Homo', address the necessity of the incarnation for humanity's redemption and God's honor.
Deep dives
The Life and Influence of St. Anselm
St. Anselm of Canterbury was a notable figure in the early medieval church, recognized as a monk, bishop, and theologian, who lived from 1033 to 1109. His life story highlights his dedication to the faith and his resistance to secular authority during the investiture controversy, where he navigated the complex relationship between church and state. This controversy arose when secular authorities sought to invest bishops with their power, challenging the church's spiritual authority. Anselm's determination to stand for the papacy against English kings set a precedent for future saints, like Thomas Becket and Thomas More, who faced similar struggles.
