87 pages 2 hours read

Thomas Aquinas

Summa Theologica

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1274

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Summa Theologica by Thomas Aquinas is a comprehensive theological work intended to educate seminarians on the harmony between faith and reason, aiming to reconcile Christian teachings with classical Greek philosophy, especially Aristotle. Organized into three Parts—addressing God, man, and Jesus Christ—it employs a methodical structure of Treatises, Questions, and Articles to expound theological concepts deeply rooted in philosophical arguments.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Thomas Aquinas's Summa Theologica is lauded for its comprehensive exploration of Christian theology and philosophy, combining rigorous logic with deep spiritual insight. Its dense text and complex arguments can be daunting, though, limiting accessibility. Scholars appreciate its enduring influence, while some criticize its dated perspectives. Overall, it remains a cornerstone of theological study.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Summa Theologica?

A reader who enjoys Summa Theologica by Thomas Aquinas is likely fascinated by theological and philosophical discourse, and seeks an in-depth analysis of Christian doctrine. Comparable to readers of Augustine’s Confessions, Descartes' Meditations on First Philosophy, or Dante’s Divine Comedy, they appreciate rigorous intellectual exploration.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Religion / Spirituality

Philosophy

Themes

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Genre

Christian literature

Italian Literature

Philosophy

Period

Medieval Literature / Middle Ages