Aristotle's On The Soul (or "De Anima" as the Latins later transcribed it) addresses the question of what it means to be alive. It explores the self-organization of all natural and living things, from the perspective and perception of an observer. The text is a qualified addendum to the Physics, and its corollary is a short … Continue reading Perception in Aristotle’s On The Soul
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Intentionality in The Friar’s Tale
In his prologue, the Friar is called a "beggar" with a "scowling face at the Summoner." In the "General Prologue" the Friar is characterized as a "wantowne" and "merye" man who dwells within an assigned region. He has a white neck like a 'lily flower,' and he knows great dalliance and fair speech. He is … Continue reading Intentionality in The Friar’s Tale
Eight Visions in Zechariah
Zechariah prophesies during the reign of Darius, emperor of Persia (after the Babylon was conquered by Persia). God's word comes unto Zechariah, and God blames the people of Israel's fathers for moral transgressions, and He commands the people of Israel to turn back to Him. Zechariah experiences a series of apocalyptic visions from God, with … Continue reading Eight Visions in Zechariah
Haggai: A Plea To Rebuild the Temple
There are four prophecies contained within the two chapters of the book of Haggai (whose named means something akin to "my holiday" though the root word in Hebrew means something like "to make a pilgrimage"). The text is believed to have been written after the Babylonian exile, during the reign of Darius, the Persian emperor, as … Continue reading Haggai: A Plea To Rebuild the Temple
“The Day of the Lord” in Zephaniah
The Book of Zephaniah clearly states its context: during the reign of Josiah, the son of Amon, King of Judah. It is a short book, containing three chapters, and it expounds upon the "word of the Lord" which comes to Zephaniah (his name means something like "YHWH is hidden"). As with other minor prophets, our knowledge … Continue reading “The Day of the Lord” in Zephaniah
Thoughts on His Family
Published in 1917, Ernest Poole's, His Family, winner of the first Pulitzer Prize for the Novel in 1918, is a surprisingly delightful read. The book has been largely out of print in recent years, much like other early winners of the Pulitzer Prize, including Booth Tarkington's The Magnificent Ambersons. It tells the story of the … Continue reading Thoughts on His Family
