confessions of st augustine (Penguin Classics)

Penguin Classics, 1971, softcover, 347 pages, condition: very good.

The Penguin Classics editions of Saint Augustines Confessions are widely regarded as definitive English translations for both general readers and scholars. Penguin currently offers two primary versions: a classic paperback translation by R.S. Pine-Coffin and the Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition translated by Garry Wills. This is the Pine-Coffin.

 First published in 1961, this remains one of the most popular translations for its clear and readable style.

Translator: R.S. Pine-Coffin.

 Includes an extensive introduction and notes that provide historical and theological context.

Written in the late 4th century, Confessions is considered the first Western autobiography. It chronicles Augustine's journey from a "sinful" youth and his exploration of Manichaeism to his eventual conversion to Christianity in Milan. 

Structure: The work is divided into 13 books.

Books IIX: Primarily autobiographical, covering his childhood, student life, and conversion.

Books XXIII: Shift into deep philosophical and theological reflection, focusing on memory, time, and the creation account in Genesis.

 The book explores human restlessness, divine grace, the nature of evil, and the search for truth, famously opening with: "Our hearts are restless until they find rest in Thee"