In the theological skies of both the Greek and the Latin Church between the seventh and the fourteenth centuries usually know as the Middle Ages, a number of remarkable men appeared. They centered their lives in Christ and searched for an understanding of the faith which they shared and which their forebears had carefully explained over the first five centuries of Christianity.
Yet in the process of trying to understand christian doctrine, the two great halves of Christendom grew apart. Differences in language and events led to differences of emphasis, teaching and practice, and sometimes to conflict.
Written for readers with no background in theology or medieval history, Many Mansions brings to life this colorful and exciting period in the history of the Church. Understandings and misunderstandings which continue into the present day are carefully treated in easily understood terms. Illustrations taken from the periods and places under discussion provide visual reinforcement to the narrative.
Introduction 7
A Note on the Illustrations 12
I Developments in the West 19
II Developments in the East: The road to Schism 39
III Monks and Monasticism 59
IV Faith and Reason 83
V The Limits of Reason 101
VI Beyond Reason: Medieval Heresy 119
VII Understanding the Trinity 137
VIII Experiencing the Trinity 155
IX God and his Light: the Hesychast Controversy 173
X The Procession of the Holy Spirit 193
XI Why Did God Become Human? 209
XII How Did God Become Human? 225
XIII The Veneration of the Virgin 243
XIV Incarnation and Icons 267
XV The Mystery of the Eucharist 285
XVI Channels of Grace 305
XVII Vessels of Wrath and Vessels of Mercy 323
XVIII Last Things 341
Index 361