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Life of Benedict XVI #1
Benedict XVI: A Life Volume One: Youth in Nazi Germany to the Second Vatican Council 1927–1965
The long-awaited and authoritative biography of Pope Benedict XVI, a giant of the Catholic Church.
Benedict XVI: Volume One offers insight into the young life and rise through the Church's ranks of a man who would become a hero and a lightning rod for Catholics the world over. Based on countless hours of interviews in Rome with Benedict himself, this much-anticipated two-volume biography is the definitive record of the life of Joseph Ratzinger and the legacy of Pope Benedict XVI.
Volume I follows the early life of the future Pope, from his days growing up in Germany and his conscription into the Hitler Youth during World War II to his career as an academic theologian and eventual Archbishop of Munich. Volume II, to be published in 2021, will cover his move to Rome under Pope John Paul II, his ascension to the papacy, and his controversial retirement and news-making statements under his successor, Pope Francis I.
This necessary companion to Benedict's own memoir, Last Testament, is the fullest account to date of the life of a radical Catholic leader who has continued to make news while cloistered in retirement in the Vatican gardens.
Benedict XVI: Volume One offers insight into the young life and rise through the Church's ranks of a man who would become a hero and a lightning rod for Catholics the world over. Based on countless hours of interviews in Rome with Benedict himself, this much-anticipated two-volume biography is the definitive record of the life of Joseph Ratzinger and the legacy of Pope Benedict XVI.
Volume I follows the early life of the future Pope, from his days growing up in Germany and his conscription into the Hitler Youth during World War II to his career as an academic theologian and eventual Archbishop of Munich. Volume II, to be published in 2021, will cover his move to Rome under Pope John Paul II, his ascension to the papacy, and his controversial retirement and news-making statements under his successor, Pope Francis I.
This necessary companion to Benedict's own memoir, Last Testament, is the fullest account to date of the life of a radical Catholic leader who has continued to make news while cloistered in retirement in the Vatican gardens.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2020
100 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Peter Seewald
57 books29 followersPeter Seewald - a journalist and a writer.
Declared as an atheist, who after a series of interviews with Joseph Ratzinger, together with his family, returned to the Catholic Church. As a journalist, he worked for "Stern" and "Spiegel".
Declared as an atheist, who after a series of interviews with Joseph Ratzinger, together with his family, returned to the Catholic Church. As a journalist, he worked for "Stern" and "Spiegel".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 15, 2020
The definitive record of the life of Joseph Ratzinger. Peter Seewald’s first volume is brimming with theological intrigue, historical fact, and Catholic anecdote. It’s written with a flair to satisfy the faithful, but in no way panders to a dialectic of the church versus the world, or any such plight of enemies and foe. It’s an objective study of the years 1927–1965 and a stark reminder of just how eventful and transformative the 20th century was in the lives of many, not just Ratzinger and his family.
The future Pope grew up with Catholic parents in Bavaria. They partook in religious festivals and he was clearly zealous and curious for the ‘spirit’ at an early age. However, these hopes for priesthood were dashed by the horrors of Nazi Germany and its ongoing turmoil with the church. Brace yourself for a history lesson here on shocking Nazi Christian state ideology and deathly persecutions of the martyrs and many thousands of other religious denominations, including the infamous “July plot” to assassinate Hitler with the evangelical Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Ratzinger emerges into a post-war continent lost in faith, but he overcomes the odds by engaging in intellectual learning at a seminary and is soon influential in a large network of theologians across Europe.
Here the book casts in-depth knowledge of, namely, the priesthood, the beauty of divine liturgy (according to Ratzinger), and the adventure of a dialogue with God. A striking comment by Ratzinger is that a priest must above all be able to support people in pain. The “ability to accept and stand suffering is a fundamental condition for successful human living. If that is not learned, then failure is inevitable.” Benedict was well known for his serious commitment and concern towards pastoral care. And Seewald’s extensive inclusion of tapes with Ratzinger make for authoratative reading of the theology.
The last third of the book moves into Ratzinger’s role in the Second Vatican Council, in particular the ‘November crisis’ controversy. It ultimately highlights how he’s always tried to unite traditions rather than act as either a conservative or progressive. The Council’s intent and legacy has never been so clear to a lay-reader, and one is baffled at how spiritual clarity can turn into such a Herculean task for the church. But that’s the crux of tradition; it’s apparently worth fighting tooth and nail for. It would take a separate volume entirely to actually understand what really went on there…
It’s fair to say, though, in this first volume we see why Ratzinger was arguably the greatest theologian ever to sit on the chair of St. Peter. And I expect the second volume, the road to becoming Pope Benedict XVI and his pontificate, will make for even more compelling reading. But how Seewald will fit it all into a single volume is dramatic enough in and of itself. Whatever the outcome, the satisfaction of a thorough and lengthy biography can certainly be expected.
The future Pope grew up with Catholic parents in Bavaria. They partook in religious festivals and he was clearly zealous and curious for the ‘spirit’ at an early age. However, these hopes for priesthood were dashed by the horrors of Nazi Germany and its ongoing turmoil with the church. Brace yourself for a history lesson here on shocking Nazi Christian state ideology and deathly persecutions of the martyrs and many thousands of other religious denominations, including the infamous “July plot” to assassinate Hitler with the evangelical Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Ratzinger emerges into a post-war continent lost in faith, but he overcomes the odds by engaging in intellectual learning at a seminary and is soon influential in a large network of theologians across Europe.
Here the book casts in-depth knowledge of, namely, the priesthood, the beauty of divine liturgy (according to Ratzinger), and the adventure of a dialogue with God. A striking comment by Ratzinger is that a priest must above all be able to support people in pain. The “ability to accept and stand suffering is a fundamental condition for successful human living. If that is not learned, then failure is inevitable.” Benedict was well known for his serious commitment and concern towards pastoral care. And Seewald’s extensive inclusion of tapes with Ratzinger make for authoratative reading of the theology.
The last third of the book moves into Ratzinger’s role in the Second Vatican Council, in particular the ‘November crisis’ controversy. It ultimately highlights how he’s always tried to unite traditions rather than act as either a conservative or progressive. The Council’s intent and legacy has never been so clear to a lay-reader, and one is baffled at how spiritual clarity can turn into such a Herculean task for the church. But that’s the crux of tradition; it’s apparently worth fighting tooth and nail for. It would take a separate volume entirely to actually understand what really went on there…
It’s fair to say, though, in this first volume we see why Ratzinger was arguably the greatest theologian ever to sit on the chair of St. Peter. And I expect the second volume, the road to becoming Pope Benedict XVI and his pontificate, will make for even more compelling reading. But how Seewald will fit it all into a single volume is dramatic enough in and of itself. Whatever the outcome, the satisfaction of a thorough and lengthy biography can certainly be expected.
November 8, 2023
First I must admit that I love Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI; so reading about his early life and the difficulties he had to overcome (and did) was the utmost pleasure. His magnificent intellectual gifts are clearly apparent. As many others, I do so miss him. Having just finished Volume 1, I’m now eagerly looking forward to Volume 2 of this biography.
December 16, 2023
Mostly excellent but this desperately needed another pass by a copy-editor. I've never seen so many typos in a marquee title (presumably rushed into an English edition?). That aside, the details of Ratzinger's first 37 years or so is riveting.
Apropos of nothing, I finished reading this a few minutes after midnight on Dec. 16, 2023. One of the last events recorded in Vol. 1 is the death of Pope Benedict's mother, Maria Ratzinger, on December 16, 1963. It's neither here nor there, but it's always spooky when one's reading and the history itself lines up so exactly.
Apropos of nothing, I finished reading this a few minutes after midnight on Dec. 16, 2023. One of the last events recorded in Vol. 1 is the death of Pope Benedict's mother, Maria Ratzinger, on December 16, 1963. It's neither here nor there, but it's always spooky when one's reading and the history itself lines up so exactly.
September 16, 2025
Very good.
December 29, 2021
What a joy to read! What a fascinating life! I had some familiarity with the life of Benedict through several interview books, his "Milestones" memoirs, and other biographies, but I learned so much more about the man from this volume. His towering intellectual gifts are apparent to the close observer, but how widely they were known and heralded by his contemporaries from very early on and ongoing was news to me. And, while I knew that he was a significant player at Vatican II, his influence on the council was astonishing. Fascinating also is how he was perceived by friend and foe alike.
This work has gotten me interested in diving into more of his writings as well as interview books I missed, like 'God and the World." I am also very interested to read any of his reports and reflections on Vatican II, now that I realize his impact on it.
This is *the* definitive biography of the pope emeritus. I can't wait to dive into volume II, even if it may need to wait until summer. Together, the two tomes add up to a thousand pages of pure delight.
Long live Father Benedict, future saint and Doctor of the Church.
This work has gotten me interested in diving into more of his writings as well as interview books I missed, like 'God and the World." I am also very interested to read any of his reports and reflections on Vatican II, now that I realize his impact on it.
This is *the* definitive biography of the pope emeritus. I can't wait to dive into volume II, even if it may need to wait until summer. Together, the two tomes add up to a thousand pages of pure delight.
Long live Father Benedict, future saint and Doctor of the Church.
April 23, 2021
I should first say that I'm a huge fan of Pope Benedict XVI. I've read a lot of what he has written. His three volume Jesus of Nazareth is a masterpiece as is his seminal work, Introduction to Christianity. (Side note: it's not really an introduction.) Seewald has been doing Q&A books with PBXVI for years so he's probably the journalist who knows him best. Three areas covered in this. book were critical for anyone trying to understand Benedict's place in modern church history. He grew up under the shadow of Nazism. His family was staunchly anti-nazi and that helped shape Benedict's view of godless totalitarianism. As a theologian he was considered almost a radical. His theology was deeply pastoral. He wanted to get away from the legalism that had dominated the church. Finally I knew he was involved in Vatican II but I didn't realize how deep that influence was, given he was only in his mid-30s. I'm now looking forward to Vol. 2 which will be out in the fall.
April 16, 2022
I am a big advocate of biography despite it falling out of favor among historians. This is an excellent look at a man who turned 95 years old today. This volume takes you from the birth of Joseph Ratzinger through his teenage years as a Bavarian in Nazi Germany to his early successes in writing during the Second Vatican Council. If you don't already know Ratzinger, I think you will find quite a few surprises in the text, most notably his progressivist approach to religion. Ratzinger was a bookish student of the world who sought the truth and turned to the written word to find it. I am definitely looking forward to reading the next volumes of this biography.
November 20, 2022
Listened to this book through Hoopla. An excellent biography of the would-be Roman Pontiff. Seewald’s work is just as much of a biography of Ratzinger’s early years as it is of WWII Germany and of the Second Vatican Council. I’ve learned a lot about the theology and philosophy of Joseph Ratzinger, and I especially admire his desire to consolidate the Tradition of the Church with the necessity of the Church to practically address modernity through renewal; a true Pontifex.
This is seen most notibly in his boldness in the proceedings of the Second Vatican Council; I never knew how influential he was in shaping the schema on Revelation, for instance. Ratzinger's emphasis on ressourcement theology rather than the prevalent strands of ultramontanism, Neo-Scholasticism, and anti-modernism following the First Vatican Council intially causes him to side with progressive theologians, such as Frs. Rahner and Küng (whom I'm glad he later disassociates with), but unlike his contemporaries, his theology is first and foremost preceded by a genuine devotion to the interior life and fidelity to the Church. This can be seen in his later life with his insistence on a hermeneutic of continuity when interpreting the texts of the Second Vatican Council.
Ratzinger is not afraid of asking seemingly controversial questions, for he knows that there can be no conflict between faith and reason; and he believes that the Holy Spirit preserves the Church in its constant teaching.
I am glad that Seewald addresses Ratzinger's nievity at the end of the work, however, not realizing that his siding with those who wished to reshape the Church in their own image would lead to all the sudden changes in church practice and discipline, and ultimately the crises which we will see in the Church today. I am interested to hear in the next volume how he responds to these consequences in the post-conciliar era.
This is seen most notibly in his boldness in the proceedings of the Second Vatican Council; I never knew how influential he was in shaping the schema on Revelation, for instance. Ratzinger's emphasis on ressourcement theology rather than the prevalent strands of ultramontanism, Neo-Scholasticism, and anti-modernism following the First Vatican Council intially causes him to side with progressive theologians, such as Frs. Rahner and Küng (whom I'm glad he later disassociates with), but unlike his contemporaries, his theology is first and foremost preceded by a genuine devotion to the interior life and fidelity to the Church. This can be seen in his later life with his insistence on a hermeneutic of continuity when interpreting the texts of the Second Vatican Council.
Ratzinger is not afraid of asking seemingly controversial questions, for he knows that there can be no conflict between faith and reason; and he believes that the Holy Spirit preserves the Church in its constant teaching.
I am glad that Seewald addresses Ratzinger's nievity at the end of the work, however, not realizing that his siding with those who wished to reshape the Church in their own image would lead to all the sudden changes in church practice and discipline, and ultimately the crises which we will see in the Church today. I am interested to hear in the next volume how he responds to these consequences in the post-conciliar era.
August 24, 2025
Peter Seewald’s biography of Pope Benedict XVI is a remarkable and deeply insightful exploration of one of the most influential religious figures of our time. Seewald, known for his meticulous research and intimate interviews, succeeds in creating a portrait that is both intellectually rigorous and profoundly human. The book offers a rare glimpse into the life, thought, and spiritual journey of Joseph Ratzinger, tracing his path from his early years in Germany to his tenure as Pope.
One of the most compelling aspects of Seewald’s work is his ability to balance personal anecdotes with theological reflection. Readers gain access to the inner world of Pope Benedict, understanding not only his scholarly pursuits but also the humility, discipline, and devotion that shaped his leadership. The biography captures his unwavering commitment to the Church and his efforts to address modern challenges with clarity and compassion.
Seewald’s narrative is engaging and accessible, making complex theological ideas understandable without oversimplifying them. The dialogues and interviews woven throughout the book provide authenticity and depth, allowing readers to connect with the Pope as both a thinker and a man of faith.
Overall, this biography is more than just a recounting of events; it is a celebration of a life dedicated to truth, wisdom, and service. For anyone seeking to understand the mind and heart of Pope Benedict XVI, Peter Seewald’s work is an enlightening, thoughtful, and inspiring read.
Damian North.
Author
One of the most compelling aspects of Seewald’s work is his ability to balance personal anecdotes with theological reflection. Readers gain access to the inner world of Pope Benedict, understanding not only his scholarly pursuits but also the humility, discipline, and devotion that shaped his leadership. The biography captures his unwavering commitment to the Church and his efforts to address modern challenges with clarity and compassion.
Seewald’s narrative is engaging and accessible, making complex theological ideas understandable without oversimplifying them. The dialogues and interviews woven throughout the book provide authenticity and depth, allowing readers to connect with the Pope as both a thinker and a man of faith.
Overall, this biography is more than just a recounting of events; it is a celebration of a life dedicated to truth, wisdom, and service. For anyone seeking to understand the mind and heart of Pope Benedict XVI, Peter Seewald’s work is an enlightening, thoughtful, and inspiring read.
Damian North.
Author
April 24, 2023
Non fiction is definitely not my style…
I’ll give this an average rating for my first non fiction read. I was very much intrigued for the first 100-120 pages, as well as the final 50, but the “lull” in the middle was a bit too hard to overlook.
If I had an officially rating, it would be a 2.5, but we will give the sheer brilliance of Benedict the benefit of a round up.
I wouldn’t recommend to someone looking for a storyline (or very many quotations of what he actually said) but if you want to be thoroughly impressed by Ratzinger’s life and what he was able to ~humbly~ accomplish as a professor and as an advisor to Vatican II, definitely pick it up.
I’ll be reaching for the second volume, but perhaps not that quickly.
I’ll give this an average rating for my first non fiction read. I was very much intrigued for the first 100-120 pages, as well as the final 50, but the “lull” in the middle was a bit too hard to overlook.
If I had an officially rating, it would be a 2.5, but we will give the sheer brilliance of Benedict the benefit of a round up.
I wouldn’t recommend to someone looking for a storyline (or very many quotations of what he actually said) but if you want to be thoroughly impressed by Ratzinger’s life and what he was able to ~humbly~ accomplish as a professor and as an advisor to Vatican II, definitely pick it up.
I’ll be reaching for the second volume, but perhaps not that quickly.
April 18, 2021
All-and-all this title kept me glued to the page. There are an embarrassing amount of typos in the translation and there are a few moments that are cringe-inducing where Seewald seems to be towards the end of his tether in terms of speaking with an "insider" knowledge on topics of theological debate. However, his skill in creating a tight grip with narrative pace is evident in creating an enjoyable and holding reading experience. He is clearly a fan of B16 and sometimes his fan mail comes through more than an objective sense.
March 12, 2022
Comprehensive Biography of Pope Benedict
This is the first volume of a two volume set on Pope Benedict. The book goes deep into the heart and mind of the former Pope. His upbringing in Germany is covered in depth, and how he became a priest. I was surprised to learn how Benedict played such an important role in Vatican 2.
The author paints a positive picture of Benedict. He also seems pro Catholic, which mars the objectivity of the book.
This is the first volume of a two volume set on Pope Benedict. The book goes deep into the heart and mind of the former Pope. His upbringing in Germany is covered in depth, and how he became a priest. I was surprised to learn how Benedict played such an important role in Vatican 2.
The author paints a positive picture of Benedict. He also seems pro Catholic, which mars the objectivity of the book.
February 9, 2023
Joseph Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict XVI, a man of tenderness and intellectual rigor. Characterized as a radical progressive in his youth, and rigid conservative in his later years. He didn't change, but the world around him did.
This biography is also schooling my on my history, I'll need to revisit some historical accounts of the things that happened in his lifetime - in a way that's more specific and broadly detailed than just personal experiences of WWII and the Missile Crisis, etc.
This biography is also schooling my on my history, I'll need to revisit some historical accounts of the things that happened in his lifetime - in a way that's more specific and broadly detailed than just personal experiences of WWII and the Missile Crisis, etc.
January 2, 2025
This was very well written & in-depth. I am grateful to the author for how much of Pope Benedict's life and the world climate/current events was covered. I already had a love & respect for our holy Father, Pope BXVI, but through this book & all I learned about the man, his life & ministry - has only caused that love & respect to grow. He is/was a great man of God, such a brilliant and holy man.I look forward to reading part 2 of his biography.
February 11, 2023
Great Book on an Even Greater Man
Excellent historical perspective on the time of Benedict’s youth and young adulthood. His deep faith, love, and vocation are all explored in intimate detail. Interesting inside details of Vatican II and the German Bishops. We’ll worth the read. Now on to Volume Two!
Excellent historical perspective on the time of Benedict’s youth and young adulthood. His deep faith, love, and vocation are all explored in intimate detail. Interesting inside details of Vatican II and the German Bishops. We’ll worth the read. Now on to Volume Two!
March 7, 2023
I knew very little about Pope Benedict going into this book. I now know much more. He was one of the more fascinating figures of the 20th and 21st centuries. An intellectual giant of the Catholic Church, Joseph Ratzinger harnessed his gifts to fight for thoughtful, robust, and traditional articulation of Catholic doctrine in the midst of a tumultuous and ever changing culture.
September 27, 2024
Gripping, well-researched, inspiring books of Joseph Ratzinger and his rise as a star theologian who would shape Vatican II. Peter Seewalds helps us see his early childhood and understand Ratzinger's experience in minor seminary. He walks us through the fascinating journey of how the Church operated in the 20th century.
October 9, 2024
Changed my perspective on war in general, where once I had deep anxiety about everything being washed away, where now I understand that there is always something constant underlying civilization that will push on...Benedict 16 had been through so much by the time he finished his teens. It's a wonder he lived as long as he did.
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February 7, 2021Details of his life from his parents, schooling, NAZI involvement and ecclesiastical details up to and including Vatican II. A man, quiet but confident, devoted to dogma. A perfect introduction to Volume 2 due out this year.
March 7, 2022
A great first volume of Ratzinger's life, full of interesting recollections and new insights a about his life, especially the WWII years and those during the II Vatican Council. What an impressive figure!
April 17, 2022
This was an excellent biography. It was fascinating to peer behind the curtain of a man who changed so much of Christian history. As a Protestant looking in, I am impressed at how diverse Catholic positions can be without recourse to denominational splitting.
November 28, 2022
The truth IS exciting.
Credit must be given to Peter Seewald for this mfascinating biography of such a famous yet humble person. And thanks to all those who provided information for this book, not excluding Benedict XVI (previously Cardinal Josef Ratzinger).
Credit must be given to Peter Seewald for this mfascinating biography of such a famous yet humble person. And thanks to all those who provided information for this book, not excluding Benedict XVI (previously Cardinal Josef Ratzinger).
March 19, 2023
A good book with a lot of insight shed on early life events that would forever shape Joseph Ratzinger. One star off due to some material perhaps being unnecessary and only include to increase the length of the book.
May 17, 2023
Honestly, didnt expect much from this book, especially because I am staying away from biographies right now but I was blown away by this book. Mostly focusses on how his personal life influenced his theology.
June 14, 2021
Absolutely the best biography I’ve ever read and I’m not even Roman Catholic. I can’t wait for the release of Volume II. I especially enjoyed learning the details and intrigues of Vatican II.
January 17, 2022
Way too long and detailed.
January 20, 2022
Mr. Seewald is very thorough with biographies. I am currently reading Volume II and it is hard to put down. He is deep on his subjects, as well as the worldly affairs at that moment in time.
May 16, 2022
history of 1932-33 Germany devolution, early persecution of priests and faith, more and more
October 2, 2022
I remember the day he was proclaimed pope!
I was in North Carolina. And my though was, why him!
I have a better understanding about him now after this book
I was in North Carolina. And my though was, why him!
I have a better understanding about him now after this book
February 8, 2023
Fascinating insight into this remarkable man and the machinations of the Roman Catholic Church. Hard going at times but worthwhile sticking with some of the more challenging chapters on dogma.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews