Summa Theologica

Volume 1, Part 1 (Prima Pars)

De: Thomas Aquinas

Narrado por: Martyn Swain

The Summa Theologica, by Thomas Aquinas, is a fundamental text in Catholic doctrine, a compendium of theology that has been studied and debated since its first publication in the 13th century. Furthermore, it has been widely regarded as one of the classics of Western philosophy, not least because, perhaps for the first time in such a systematic manner, it set out to consider the views of non-Christian figures such as Aristotle, Boethius, Muslim writers including Averroes (Ibn Rushd) and Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and the Sephardic Jewish scholar Maimonides.

The work proved a major influence on Dante when he came to write the Divine Comedy and continues to be studied in most of the major Christian traditions. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274), an Italian-born Dominican Friar, wrote the Summa Theologica between 1265 and 1274 - it was unfinished at his death. He set out to provide a basic introduction to students, but the scope and detail goes far further than that. It is a huge work, approaching two million words in total. It is divided formally into three parts, though the third was completed after his death by incorporating earlier writings. The three main sections are generally further subdivided, and this is reflected in the Ukemi recording.

This opening recording contains the First Part (Prima Pars). It will be followed by Second Part (Prima Secundae - the first part of Part II); then Second Part (Secundae Secundae - the second part of Part II); and finally Part III.

Aquinas ordered his work in a clear and regular pattern. He starts with a Question, divides the Question into a number of ‘Articles’, and within each Article he enters into a debate, offering Objections and Replies to the Objections. Part I (Prima Pars) has 119 Questions and 584 Articles and is essentially devoted to God’s existence and nature. The first Question is ‘The Nature and Extent of Sacred Doctrine’. The second Question (widely read and discussed) is ‘The Existence of God’, which includes his proposal of ‘the five ways’ proving the existence of God. First Part is further divided into sections: Treatise on the Creation, Treatise on the Angels, Treatise on the Work of the Six Days, Treatise on Man, Treatise on the Divine Government. The final Question in the First Part is ‘Of the Propagation of Man as to the Body’.

The translation used has been formally attributed to Fathers of the English Dominican Province, though it is generally accepted it was the work of one man, Father Laurence Shapcote. It is read with clarity and fluency by Martyn Swain.(P)2020 Ukemi Productions Ltd

Very eloquent reading

Great audio book read with eloquence. Summa Theologica has been on my reading list for a few years. Audible has made it easy to digest and reread highlights of the text itself. Recommend this audiobook for anyone who hasn’t had a chance to read the text.

starts like prisoner conversion

starts like prisoner conversion. talks of processes of the human as relating to science. as animal, angel, and unwell with parasites. methods of encapsulation, illustrated well. imagine this was used during forced conversions, or while author in duress? well read.

Read Aristotle first

As a fairly recent student of the Classics I started reading this book before reading Aristotle, and after getting through some of the first questions that completely reference the philosopher, I realize that Aristotle‘s readings are prerequisite for St. Thomas Aquinas as he uses Aristotle’s method as the framework for his writing.

His writings provide a very rational framework for addressing deep and complex issues from first principles regardless of ones religious orientation. It’s also fascinating to understand the depth of understanding from people 1000 to 5000 (assuming the inclusion of Aristotle’s pre-dating sources and influences ) years predating us, who, in many ways, seems more advanced than current thinking.

In our current era of advanced and rapidly progressing techno-fication of culture. These are great reminders of a much stronger and fundamental approach to question the nature of reality and our purpose on earth that provide an independent and strong framework for the reader.

A great way to get the Summa!

The Summa, although for “beginners,” is daunting because of its sheer size. In fact, I’m relatively sure that’s why many don’t attempt it. Not that they don’t want to, but they can’t afford the time to sit and read it page by page. Audible has solved the problem. With the impeccable narration of Martyn Swain (God bless him!), the Summa is now possible, and with it, communion with one of the greatest minds of all time. Bravo Audible! Bravo Mr. Swain!

Most important writing besides Bible.

In central Catholic studies. Amazing reading. Talented voice of narrator. An adequate translation for most.