A magnificent history of doctrine.--New York Review of Books
In this volume Jaroslav Pelikan continues the splendid work he has done
thus far in his projected five-volume history of the development of
Christian doctrine, defined as 'what the Church believes, teaches, and
confesses on the basis of the word of God.' The entire work will become
an indispensable resource not only for the history of doctrine but also
for its reformulation today. Copious documentation in the margins and
careful indexing add to its immense usefulness.--E. Glenn Hinson,
Christian Century
This book is based on a most meticulous examination of medieval
authorities and the growth of medieval theology is essentially told in
their own words. What is more important, however, then the astounding
number of primary sources the author has consulted or his sovereign
familiarity with modern studies on his subject, is his ability to
discern form and direction in the bewildering growth of medieval
Christian doctrine, and, by thoughtful emphasis and selection, to show
the pattern of that development in a lucid and persuasive narrative. No
one interested in the history of Christianity or theology and no
medievalist, whatever the field of specialization, will be able to
ignore this magnificent synthesis.--Bernhard W. Scholz, History
The series is obviously the indispensable text for graduate theological
study in the development of doctrine, and an important reference for
scholars of religious and intellectual history as well. . . . Professor
Pelikan's series marks a significant departure, and in him we have at
last a master teacher.--Marjorie O'Rourke Boyle, Commonweal