Augustine On The Happy Life Pdf Review

The dialogue begins with the universal premise that every human being desires happiness. However, Augustine argues that true happiness cannot be found in external, temporary goods like wealth, fame, or physical pleasures because these are subject to fate and can be lost against one’s will. St. Augustine The Happy Life of the Soul - De Gruyter

5. Why Read This Work?

2. The Crisis of Burnout

• Session 1 (20–30 min): Read the opening dialogue and Augustine’s framing of happiness; note definitions offered.
• Session 2 (20–30 min): Read his critique of wealth, honor, and bodily goods as sources of happiness.
• Session 3 (20–30 min): Read Augustine’s positive account: beatitude as union with God; virtues and love.
• Session 4 (20–30 min): Re-read key passages and write a one-page summary and three discussion questions.

Strengths of the Work (Why read it?)

“He who has God is happy.” (Section 4) augustine on the happy life pdf