Why do good things happen to bad people? Can we prove whether God exists? What is the difference between right and wrong? Medieval Philosophers were centrally concerned with such questions: questions which are as relevant today as a thousand years ago when the likes of Anselm and Aquinas sought to resolve them.

In this fast-paced, enlightening guide, Sharon M. Kaye takes us on a whistle-stop tour of medieval philosophy, revealing the debt it owes to Aristotle and Plato, and showing how medieval thought is still inspiring philosophers and thinkers today. With new translations of numerous key extracts, Kaye directly introduces the reader to the philosophers’ writings and the criticisms levied against them. Including helpful textboxes throughout the book detailing key thinkers, this is an entertaining and comprehensive primer for students and general readers alike.

Sharon M. Kaye is Associate Professor of Philosophy at John Carroll University. She is the author of On Ockham and On Augustine.

“Beautifully written and wonderfully accessible. Discussing all the major thinkers and topics of the period, Kaye’s volume does exactly what it should.” William Irwin, Professor of Philosophy, King's College Pennsylvania and Editor of The Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture Series

“Simultaneously entices students into and prepares them for the riches of the abundant literature that lies ready for their exploration.” Martin Tweedale, Professor Emeritus of Medieval Philosophy, University of Alberta