- 1. Summa Theologica, written by the medieval philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century, is one of the most significant works in Western philosophy and Catholic theology. This comprehensive text seeks to systematically outline the Christian faith and cover a vast array of theological topics, including the nature of God, the morality of human actions, the workings of divine grace, and the doctrine of the sacraments. Divided into three main parts, the work systematically addresses questions and objections, showcasing Aquinas's method of scholasticism that emphasizes reasoned argumentation and synthesis of classical philosophy, particularly the works of Aristotle, with Christian doctrine. The first part discusses God’s existence and nature, the second part explains human behavior and ethics, and the third part explores Christ’s role in salvation and the significance of the sacraments. With its rigorous analytical style, Summa Theologica not only aimed to educate and inform but also to dispel misunderstandings and heresies of the time, making it a vital reference for anyone studying Catholic theology and philosophy.
Who wrote the 'Summa Theologica'?
A) Martin Luther B) Thomas Aquinas C) John Calvin D) Augustine of Hippo
- 2. What is the main purpose of the 'Summa Theologica'?
A) To critique philosophical systems B) To explain the history of the church C) To argue against heresy D) To provide a comprehensive guide to Christian theology
- 3. In which year was the 'Summa Theologica' completed?
A) 1274 B) 1250 C) 1300 D) 1215
- 4. What significance does Aquinas give to reason?
A) It is essential for understanding faith B) It is unnecessary for theology C) It is secondary to tradition D) It opposes faith
- 5. Which work precedes the 'Summa Theologica'?
A) Summa Contra Gentiles B) City of God C) Confessions D) The Prince
- 6. What is the ultimate end of human life according to Aquinas?
A) Achieving happiness on earth B) Serving the state C) Union with God D) Knowledge of self
- 7. What does the 'First Part' of the 'Summa Theologica' primarily address?
A) God and creation B) The sacraments C) Human actions D) Christ and redemption
- 8. What style is primarily used in the 'Summa Theologica'?
A) Narrative style. B) Expository style. C) Scholastic style. D) Lyric style.
- 9. What virtue is a focus of the 'Summa Theologica'?
A) Materialism. B) Hedonism. C) Charity. D) Apathy.
- 10. What does Aquinas believe about truth?
A) Truth is relative to individuals B) Truth is subjective opinion C) Truth is the conformity of the intellect to reality D) Truth can change with society
- 11. In Aquinas's view, how is happiness achieved?
A) Through virtue and union with God B) Through wealth and power C) By avoiding pain D) By fulfilling desires
- 12. What impact did the 'Summa Theologica' have on later thought?
A) It caused a decline in philosophical inquiry B) It significantly influenced Christian theology and philosophy C) It was seen as outdated quickly D) It was largely ignored by scholars
- 13. What is Aquinas's stance on the nature of God?
A) God is the first cause and necessary being B) God is subjective and relative C) God is indifferent to human affairs D) God is an abstract concept
- 14. What term refers to the ultimate end of human existence, according to Aquinas?
A) Wealth. B) Pleasure. C) Beatitude. D) Knowledge.
- 15. Which theological concept does Aquinas use to describe moral law?
A) Divine command theory B) Nominalism C) Utilitarianism D) Natural law
- 16. What does the 'Third Part' focus on?
A) Natural law B) Philosophical ethics C) The problem of evil D) Christ and the sacraments
- 17. How many parts is the 'Summa Theologica' traditionally divided into?
A) Five parts. B) Four parts. C) Three parts. D) Two parts.
- 18. What does Aquinas argue about the nature of evil?
A) Evil is a substance B) Evil is a necessary force C) Evil is the absence of good D) Evil is more powerful than good
- 19. In which part of the 'Summa' does Aquinas discuss the sacraments?
A) The Second Part. B) The Third Part. C) The Appendix. D) The First Part.
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