The City of God by Augustine

1. The City of God, written by St. Augustine of Hippo in the early 5th century, is a monumental work of Christian philosophy that addresses the nature of the city of man in contrast to the city of God. In this profound treatise, Augustine responds to the cultural despair following the sack of Rome by the Visigoths in 410 AD, countering the pagan belief that the fall of the empire was due to the abandonment of the traditional Roman gods. Instead, Augustine posits that the true allegiance of the faithful lies not in earthly cities and their governance but in a spiritual community, defined by the love of God and the hope of eternal life. He systematically examines the history of humanity through a theological lens, articulating a vision of two distinct societies: one driven by self-love and pride, representing earthly kingdoms, and the other characterized by love for God, which ultimately leads to salvation. The work delves into profound themes such as divine providence, grace, free will, and the nature of true happiness, positioning Christianity as a refuge for believers and offering a robust defense of the faith amidst a crumbling empire. St. Augustine's exploration of the relationship between divine sovereignty and human history has had a lasting impact on Christian theology and Western thought, making The City of God a foundational text for understanding the interplay of faith, culture, and politics.

What is the primary purpose of Augustine's 'The City of God'?

A) To defend Christianity against pagan accusations after the sack of Rome.
B) To outline a plan for a perfect Christian government.
C) To provide a historical account of the Roman Empire's founding.
D) To document the life of Jesus Christ.

2. How does Augustine define the two cities?

A) The City of God is based on love of God, and the Earthly City on love of self.
B) The City of the past and the City of the future.
C) The City of Rome and the City of Jerusalem.
D) The City of the clergy and the City of the laity.

3. According to Augustine, what is the ultimate source of true peace?

A) God
B) Military strength
C) Just laws
D) A powerful emperor

4. According to Augustine, what is true freedom?

A) Political independence from an empire.
B) Liberation from sin to serve God.
C) The ability to do whatever one desires.
D) Owning no property or earthly attachments.

5. How does Augustine characterize earthly peace?

A) As an impossible illusion not to be pursued.
B) As identical to the peace of the City of God.
C) As a temporary and imperfect good.
D) As the primary goal of the Christian life.

6. What does Augustine argue about the cause of Rome's troubles?

A) Military weakness and poor leadership.
B) The rise of the Christian religion.
C) Moral corruption, not the abandonment of pagan gods.
D) Economic inflation and famine.

7. What is the final end or destiny of the City of God?

A) To rule over a global earthly empire.
B) To achieve a perfect socialist state.
C) To be destroyed and reborn in a cycle.
D) Eternal peace and happiness in heaven with God.

8. How does Augustine describe the relationship between the two cities in the present world?

A) They are completely separate with no interaction.
B) They are at constant and open war with each other.
C) They are intermingled and will be separated at the Last Judgment.
D) The Earthly City will gradually become the City of God.

9. What is Augustine's view on the purpose of government?

A) To enforce Christian doctrine on all citizens.
B) To redistribute wealth equally among people.
C) To restrain sin and maintain earthly order and peace.
D) To be abolished so God can rule directly.

10. According to Augustine, what was the first murder a symbol of?

A) The need for capital punishment.
B) A personal family dispute.
C) A political assassination.
D) The conflict between the two cities (Cain and Abel).

11. What does Augustine argue about the source of a society's characteristics?

A) A society is defined by what its people love collectively.
B) A society is defined by its economic system.
C) A society is defined by its geographical location.
D) A society is defined by its racial composition.

12. What is Augustine's perspective on the possibility of perfect justice on earth?

A) It is impossible because of human sinfulness.
B) It can be achieved through the right laws.
C) It existed only in the Garden of Eden.
D) It is the main goal of the Church's mission.

13. According to Augustine, what was the first sin?

A) Gluttony
B) Theft
C) Murder
D) Pride

14. What is the ultimate destination of the City of God?

A) A utopian city-state
B) An earthly paradise
C) Heavenly Jerusalem
D) A restored Roman Empire

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