Augustine, Christianity, Neoplatonism, and Gnosticism

Augustine, a prominent figure influenced by Christianity, Neoplatonism, and Gnosticism, lived in the declining Roman Empire. He was drawn towards Manichaeism, a religion with Gnostic elements, seeking to address the world's darkening and his personal inner conflict, particularly his struggle with sexual addiction. Augustine's profound self-loathing and quest for agency led him to write 'Confessions,' the first Western autobiography. Describing an impactful event from his youth involving theft, he grappled with his inner turmoil, degradation, and the prevalent evil in the world.