Eriugena: Medieval Irish Philosopher, Poet, and Translator

The story of Iohannes Scottus Eriugena (c. 800–870), Ireland’s greatest philosopher, is told here for the newcomer. Educated in Ireland, Eriugena emigrated to France where he became a close friend of the Emperor, Charles the Bald, serving him as court poet and master of the palace school. He also became a translator and admirer of the theology of the Greek Church, leading eventually to his condemnation as a heretic. In recent times, however, he has become one of the most studied of all mediaeval intellectuals. “A great book for two reasons, the clear account of Eriugena’s philosophy and theology, and the fine prose style, particularly in the translations of Eriugena’s own words.” —Donnchadh Ó Corráin