Cambridge Platonist Spirituality

The Classics of Western Spirituality

by Charles Taliaferro (Contributor, Editor), Alison J. Tepley (Editor)

This volume in the distinguished Classics of Western Spirituality series presents a collection of essays, poetry, and treatises by Cambridge Platonists, a movement in philosophical theology that flourished around Cambridge University in the 17th century and left a profound impact on the shape of subsequent religious life in the English speaking world. This school of thought emphasized the great goodness of God, the accord between reason and faith, an integrated life of virtue, and the deep joy of living in concord with God. In an important introduction, the editors situate the Cambridge Platonist movement in its historical and religious the decades of turbulence and political crises surrounding the English Civil War. They then offer brief biographical portraits of the principal members of the Benjamin Whichcote; Henry More; Ralph Cudworth; John Smith; Peter Sterry; Nathaniel Culverwell; and Anne Conway. Following the introduction is a representative sample of Cambridge Platonist writings. Scholars and students of 17th-century England, Christian spirituality of the early modern era, intellectual history, and faith and reason will appreciate this treatment of the spiritual life and work of an often overlooked, but significant, movement. †

Genres: Philosophy, Mysticism, Spirituality, Religion

256 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2004

Reviews

[Bennett Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is excellent - a great addition to a great series with a characteristically great introduction, which is worth the price of the book. But I’m not sure what to make of the subject. I expected more Plato and less Puritanism, more mysticism and less preaching. Don’t get me wrong, I like the (English) Puritans and sermons. But the primary works that make up this collection are largely sermons about morality, especially love. I was hoping for something more obviously Platonic, and perhaps Lewis-Ish, since he appreciated them. However, this serves as a good introduction to an influential version of 17tj century English spirituality that is neither Puritan, Laudian, or Catholic.

[Henry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good introduction to the Cambridge Platonists -- who I've known about, but have read very little from before (less than I wish I had). There are some very beautiful, poetic passages in here, some great representations of the Platonic Spirit in Christianity (though some more influenced by Descartes than they should have been). I found some good material here, and know more now as to what to look for in the future.