The City of God (Modern Library Giant)

A foundational work of Christian theology and Western philosophy written in the early 5th century that contrasts the “City of God” with the earthly city, influencing theology and historical thought for centuries.

Written by one of the most influential Church Fathers, The City of God was composed after the sack of Rome in 410 AD as a comprehensive defense of Christianity against claims that it caused Rome’s decline. Augustine presents a sweeping vision of human history as the ongoing conflict between two metaphorical societies—the earthly city driven by self-love and the City of God centered on the love of God—and explores theology, philosophy, morality, and divine providence. The book’s scope ranges from rebuttals of pagan religion and philosophy to a theological interpretation of history and eschatology, making it a monumental work in both Christian thought and Western intellectual history.

“One of the great cornerstones in the history of Christian philosophy, The City of God provides an insightful interpretation of the development of Western society and the origin of most Western thought.” — Christianbook.com