Dr. Elizabeth Klein and Taylor Kemp delve into the life of St. Anselm of Canterbury, his resistance against English kings in the investiture controversy, and his ontological argument for God's existence. They discuss Anselm's journey from a monk to Archbishop of Canterbury, his theological contributions, and the concept of satisfaction in human desires.
St. Anselm's theological masterpiece 'Cur Deus Homo' delves into the nature of the incarnation and Christ's atonement, remaining influential today.
Anselm's refusal to be invested by secular authorities showcases his dedication to upholding religious principles amidst political turmoil.
Deep dives
Life and Contributions of Saint Anselm of Canterbury
Saint Anselm of Canterbury, a monk, abbot, and theologian, lived from 1033 to 1109, making him an important figure in early medieval history. Renowned for his theological masterpiece 'Cur Deus Homo,' he delved into the nature of the incarnation and Christ's atonement, which remains influential today. Anselm also introduced the archaeological argument for the existence of God. Moreover, his intriguing life, intertwined with resisting English kings during the Investiture Controversy, showcases his dedication to spiritual principles amidst political turmoil.
Challenges and Negotiations as Archbishop of Canterbury
As Archbishop of Canterbury, Saint Anselm faced challenges with secular authorities, particularly with King William II during the Investiture Controversy. Anselm's refusal to be invested by Henry I due to canon law led to conflicts and even exile. Through negotiations and confrontations, Anselm strove to maintain the Church's spiritual authority against royal interference, exemplifying a steadfast commitment to upholding religious principles.
Theological Legacy and Philosophical Significance of Saint Anselm
Anselm's theological works, including 'Cur Deus Homo,' explore profound concepts such as the reasons behind the incarnation and the concept of the atonement. His ontological argument for the existence of God, based on the idea that the greatest conceivable being must exist, has sparked philosophical debates and reflections. Despite not being universally accepted, Anselm's argument remains intellectually intriguing and continues to provoke contemplation on the nature of divinity.
Taylor Kemp and Dr. Elizabeth Klein discuss the life of St. Anselm of Canterbury, monk, abbot, and second archbishop of Canterbury. A doctor of the Church, St. Anslem was admired by Thomas Beckett and Thomas More because he resisted English kings during the investiture controversy. St. Anselm’s masterpiece Cur Deus Homo includes his argument for the ontological argument for God’s existence.