Ancient Love of Wisdom and its Medieval Transformation

Abstract

Against the ancient background, the paper shows how philosophy, as a form of love, is transformed in the medieval period. Henry of Ghent's view of the aim of contemplation exemplifies this transformation, and indicates how medieval love of wisdom, as the synthesis of reason and revelation, can be an enhancement of the desire that animates ancient philosophy. In this telling case and at a fundamental level, faith and revelation stimulate love of wisdom even as reason endeavors to be reconciled with the details of theological doctrine.