The Powers of the Soul in David of Augsburg’s 'De Exterioris et Interioris Hominis Compositione'

Abstract

David of Augsburg, who lived from c. 1200 to 1272, is perhaps one of the least known of the most read authors of the late Middle Ages. His opus magnum, De exterioris et interioris hominis compositione secundum triplicem statum incipientium, proficientium et perfectorum, written in the 1240s in Regensburg, is one of the most successful books of learning in the Northern part of Europe in the Late Middle Ages. It is a voluminous treatise consisting of three books, structured according to Pseudo-Dionysius’ three steps of the spiritual life. Within this triple scheme, the three powers of the soul (understanding, memory, and will) are presented as central to the whole trajectory of spiritual growth towards God. This article addresses five paradoxes that one encounters while studying David and his extensive treatise, in particular the parts on the powers of the soul.