Peter S. Dillard Divine Audacity

Annotation

In Divine Audacity, Peter Dillardpresents a historically informed and rigorous analysis of the themes ofmystical union, volition and virtue that occupied several of the foremosttheological minds in the late thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries. Inparticular, the work of Marguerite Porete raises complex questions in theseareas, which are further explored by a trio of her near contemporaries. Theirrespective meditations are thoroughly analysed and then skilfully brought intodialogue.What emerges from Dillard's synthesis ofthese voices is a contemporary mystical theology that is rooted in Hugh ofBalma's affective approach, sharpened through critical engagement with MeisterEckhart's intellectualism, and strengthened by crucial insights gleaned fromthe writings of John Ruusbroec. The fresh examination of these thinkers - oneof whom paid with her life for her radicalism - will appeal to philosophers andtheologians alike, while Dillard's own propositions demand attention from allwho concern themselves with the nature of the union between the soul and God.