How to read it
- 1Notice the movement from natural theology to revealed doctrine.
- 2Compare its longer demonstrations with the briefer articles in the Summa Theologiae.
- 3Keep the missionary and apologetic setting in view.
Apologetic synthesis
Summa contra Gentiles
A major work explaining truths knowable by reason and truths received by revelation, especially about God, providence, and salvation.
Date
c. 1259-1265
Why it matters
It is one of the best places to see Aquinas distinguish philosophical demonstration from mysteries that exceed reason.