Bede and the Cosmos : Theology and Nature in the Eighth Century

__Bede and the Cosmos__ examines Bede’s cosmology—his understanding of the universe and its laws. It explores his ideas regarding both the structure and mechanics of the created world and the relationship of that world to its Creator. Beginning with __On the Nature of Things__ and moving on to survey his writings in other genres, it demonstrates the key role that natural philosophy played in shaping Bede’s worldview, and explores the ramifications that this had on his cultural, theological and historical thought. From questions about angelic bodies and the destruction of the world at judgement day, to subtle arguments about free will and the meaning of history, Bede’s fascinating and unique engagement with the natural world is explored in this comprehensive study. "Bede and the Cosmos examines Bede's cosmology-his understanding of the universe and its laws. It explores his ideas regarding both the structure and mechanics of the created world and the relationship of that world to its Creator. Beginning with On the Nature of Things and moving on to survey his writings in other genres, it demonstrates the key role that natural philosophy played in shaping Bede's worldview, and explores the ramifications that this had on his cultural, theological and historical thought. From questions about angelic bodies and the destruction of the world at judgement day, to subtle arguments about free will and the meaning of history, Bede's fascinating and unique engagement with the natural world is explored in this comprehensive study"-- Provided by publisher Cover Half Title Series Page Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Table of Contents Acknowledgements List of Abbreviations 1 Background and Context 2 De Natura Rerum and the Topography of the Cosmos 3 Bede’s Cosmogony: Creation, Perfection, Decline 4 Soul and Body 5 Aetherial Angels and Aerial Demons 6 God and Creation 7 Heaven, Hell and the Interim 8 The End of the World and After 9 Conclusion Bibliography Index