Until recently, more scholarly careers were being devoted to the study of the teaching of St Thomas Aquinas than to any other philosophical or theological doctrine, with the possible exception of Marxism. Roman Catholic scholars have tended, however, to isolate his philosophical theology from its neo-Platonism, while others have treated the various parts of his Summa Theologiae without regard to their historical context. Dr Hankey's main contention is that Aquinas was less of an Aristotelian than is commonly supposed, and that a proper appreciation of his work requires us to take fuller notice of his reliance on neo-Platonism. In setting out his case, Dr Hankey pays special attention to the influence of Proclus, whose work receives a critical exposition. The author supports his position by making a careful analysis of the first 45 questions of the Summa Theologiae.

W.J. Hankey's profile page

W. J.HankeyAssociate Professor of ClassicsKing's College and Dalhousie University.

'scholarly, reflected and courteous book ... a work of importance' Edward Booth Op, New Blackfriars

'One may disagree with this author in many of his broader conclusions, but he is often thought-provoking on points of detail. These may indeed provide the main value of the book.' Thomas Murphy, Heythrop Journal, July 1992