Veiled desire
Book Description
Augustine's complex relationship with women and sexuality continues to shape Christian thought centuries after his death, yet few understand the personal and cultural forces that influenced his theological conclusions. In "Veiled Desire," Kim Power undertakes a fascinating exploration of what this towering figure actually wrote about women, moving beyond assumptions to examine the real sources of his perspectives.
Power traces the profound influence of the women who shaped Augustine's life, particularly his devoted mother Monica and his longtime companion who bore his child. She reveals how Augustine's views evolved dramatically after he became a bishop, when he ceased having close relationships with women despite providing pastoral care to many. This transformation occurred as he grappled with fundamental questions about whether women are created in God's image and developed his increasingly idealized vision of the Virgin Mary.
Drawing from psychology, anthropology, feminist theory, and theology, Power places Augustine within his historical context while illuminating how his personal experiences and cultural assumptions influenced his theological legacy. She demonstrates how the religious, philosophical, and biological beliefs Augustine shared with his contemporaries shaped conclusions that continue to impact modern Christianity's approach to women and sexuality.
This scholarly yet accessible work offers readers a nuanced understanding of how personal history, cultural context, and spiritual development intersect to create lasting theological frameworks that still influence contemporary faith communities.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 328 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore History of doctrines
- ✓ Explore Femme (Théologie chrétienne)
- ✓ Explore Et les femmes
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects of Women
- ✓ Explore Histoire des doctrines
- ✓ Explore Women in Christianity
- ✓ Explore Women, religious life
