Augustine Confessions Analysis

When reading the collection of books “Confessions,” it becomes clear the Saint Augustine struggles immensely with the uncertainty of his faith. It is quite apparent that his purpose is to seek God and accept him into his life however possible, while also suggesting others to the same. Perhaps Augustine was attempting to fill a missing piece or a void throughout his life, or maybe he was undergoing certain issues in his relationships with others that he believed God could help provide guidance for. Whatever the reason, he was in search of some stability from God and religion. ‘Confessions’ is extremely well known throughout history due to its extensive insight into the comprehension of God’s mercy that is shown. The collection of books serves

Augustine attempts to inform others about the various enjoyments life has to offer. His big argument is that people can attain true happiness by accepting God into their lives, and refrain from participating in worldly pleasures. He believes that rejecting the temptations of all worldly pleasures is essential in developing a true and fulfilling life devoted to God. The argument to be had here is that some could debate that Augustine’s strict views of steering clear of the pleasures our world has to offer is excessive and can prevent him from attaining a balanced lifestyle. Society views overeating as outrageous and unhealthy, and the same could be said for Augustine’s belief of self restraint. Some could say that Augustine’s pleasure levels are insufficient and his practice of willpower and self discipline is excessive. He has chosen a direction of virtue and understands the suffering he must endure to achieve it by refraining from secular enjoyment. Aristotle says, “The eye is attracted to beautiful objects, by gold and silver and all such things. There is great pleasure, too, in feeling something agreeable to the touch, and material things have various qualities to please each of the other senses. Our ambition to obtain all these things must not lead us astray” (p.48). This is showing Augustine’s understanding that life’s pleasures are wonderful, but surrendering to them leads to immoral actions and unrighteousness. However, Augustine does not recommend indulging in worldly pleasures in moderation and keeping a balance. Instead, he argues that eliminating earthly possessions and secular pleasures all together will bring those closer to