467: Vice & Virtue — Introduction

The Seven Deadly Sins are a concept in Christian ethics that originated in the early Christian Church. They are typically listed as pride (superbia), envy (invidia), wrath (ira), sloth (accidia), greed (avaritia), gluttony (gula), and lust (luxuria). These sins are often seen as the root of all other sins and are considered to be the most objectionable. They have been discussed and elaborated upon by various theologians and writers throughout history, including their symbolic associations with celestial bodies and their impact on the human soul.

Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible. The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism. He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden. The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis. The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence.

Dante Alighieri's "Inferno" is the first part of his epic poem "The Divine Comedy. " It depicts a journey through Hell, guided by the Roman poet Virgil. Dante encounters various figures from history and mythology, each suffering punishments fitting their sins. The poem explores themes of sin, redemption, justice, and the nature of the human soul. "Inferno" is a masterpiece of medieval literature, renowned for its vivid imagery, powerful symbolism, and profound philosophical insights. Its influence on Western art, literature, and thought is immeasurable. The poem's exploration of morality, justice, and the human condition continues to resonate with readers centuries later.

The Summa Theologica is a comprehensive work divided into three parts. The first part deals with God, the creation of the world, angels, and the nature of man. The second part is subdivided into two sections: the first part of the second part discusses general principles of morality and law, while the second part of the second part addresses morality in particular, including individual virtues and vices. The third part, left unfinished by Aquinas, focuses on the person and work of Christ and the sacraments. The work also includes a posthumous supplement that concludes the third part and discusses Christian eschatology. Aquinas drew on Aristotelian and Augustinian influences and aimed to integrate faith and reason in his theological arguments.