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The Two Cities Reading Notes

The City of God, Volume I

Notes, explanations, and observations for deeper reading.

Augustine, of Hippo, Saint 2014 45 min
Summary Outline Mindmaps Reading Notes Quotes Study Guide
Note 1

Varro's Theology

Augustine uses the scholar Varro’s categorization of theology (mythical, civil, natural) to systematically dismantle the intellectual foundations of Roman religion.

Note 2

The Nature of Angels

The fall of the angels precedes the fall of man, establishing that the conflict between good and evil is cosmic, not merely human.

Note 3

Virtue and Glory

Augustine distinguishes between Roman virtue, which seeks glory, and true virtue, which seeks piety. The former belongs to the Earthly City, the latter to the City of God.