The Letters

THE Letters of St. Basil fittingly continue the series of Patristic writings in the Loeb Classical Library which has already published some of the works of Clement of Alexandria, St. Augustine and the Apostolic Fathers. Apart from their historical significance, these Letters are interesting as expressions of a striking personality. There is so much in the man himself and so rich a variety in his experience, that even in an age remarkable for men of force and character he is an outstanding figure. Withdrawn for a time from contact with worldly affairs, he is again in the very midst of them as bishop and theologian. With a viligant eye to the spiritual needs of his own diocese, he is none the less deeply concerned for the preservation of the Faith against the attack, open or insidious, of Arianism. Here and there in the Letters he gives us descriptions that are exquisite. Occasionally, in extolling the beauty of Christian virtue, he becomes eloquent. And when duty compels him to upbraid those in high places, episcopal or imperial, he is outspoken and fearless.