Ebook: The History of the Dominican Order. Vol. 2. Intellectual and Cultural Life to 1500

This volume, as its predecessor, is an attempt at synthesis. It is not a complete history of the Dominican Order but deals only with the intellectual and cultural aspects of the Order's life from its foundation until 1500.

After describing the essential place study occupies in the Order's understanding of its own contemplative apostolic mission, the volume devotes two chapters to an account of the Dominican academic system and curriculum. It then turns to consider the doctrinal positions taken by the first Dominican theologians and surveys the achievement of Albert the Great and Thomas Aquinas. A further chapter narrates the rise of the Thomistic School, recounts its defense of the doctrines of Thomas, and sketches the handbooks and other tools his brethren prepared to facilitate the study of his writings. Then follows a chapter devoted to a discussion of Dominican attitudes and procedures in the establishment of libraries and the acquisition of books. The final chapters recount the careers and examine the writings of Dominican authors in biblical, pastoral, and spiritual theology, and in history. The volume closes with a quick look at the reaction of various Dominicans toward Humanism.