January 28th, Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas The Summa Theologica
of St. Thomas Aquinas is, without question, the greatest work of
theology ever written. And yet, because of the length of the
treatise – some six hundred fifteen question of up to six or
even eight articles, in three (or four) volumes – even the most
avid fans of the Angel of the Schools find it difficult to read
the whole Summa. In this post, we intend to give an indication
of not only how to read any particular portion of the Summa, but
also of how to succeed in reading the whole work. The structure
of the Summa Theologica St. Thomas’ Summa is divided into four
parts: the first part, Summa Theologica I (ST I); the first part
of the second part (ST I-II); the second part of the second part
(ST II-II); and the third part (ST III), to this is added the
“Supplement” completed by Reginald of Piperno from St. Thomas’
early writings. 1) The first part (ST I) considers God, the
Trinity, and creation (especially men and angels). 2a) The first
part of the