Introduction to the Philosophy of Saint Augustine
386. Talks with Simplicianus, reads of conversion of famous NeoPlatonic rhetorician Victorinus. Studies St. Paul and is converted through a voice from heaven. Gives up his profession of rhetorician.
II. Conversion to the Episcopate (386-396)
Retires to Cassiciacum (Sept. to March). Writes the dialogues Against the Academics, The Happy Life, Divine Providence.
Returns to Milan. With Adeodatus and Alypius is baptized by Ambrose (April 24).
Leaves Milan. Death of Monica at Rome (autumn). Augustine remains in Rome.
Returns to Africa. Establishes monastery at Tagaste.
Death of Adeodatus. Writes the dialogues The True Religion
The Teacher, and Music.
Sor.
Ordained priest at Hippo by Bishop Valerius.
Controversies with the Manicheans. Refutation of Fortunatus.
Attends Council of Hippo. Gives a discourse on Faith and the Creed.
Consecrated Bishop of Hippo.
III. The Episcopate (396-430)
OFT:
Refutation of Manes. Begins the Confessions.
399;
Attends First Council of Carthage. Completes the Confessions.
Controversies with the Donatists. Writes The Nature of the Good. Begins The Trinity.
Refutation of the Epistle of Petilianus, a Donatist.
403-410. Rigorous repression of the Donatists.
All: Plays a prominent role in the conference between the Catholic
Bishops and the Donatists. Waning influence of Donatism.
412. Beginning of the controversies with the Pelagians.