Thomas Merton as a ‘wise theologian’: an engagement with Hans Urs von Balthasar and David F. Ford

Tedcastle, Helen Louise (2016). Thomas Merton as a ‘wise theologian’: an engagement with Hans Urs von Balthasar and David F. Ford. University of Birmingham. M.Phil.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the question: in what way can Thomas Merton be understood as a wise theologian, through an engagement with Hans Urs von Balthasar and David F. Ford. In chapter one, it is argued that he is a theologian in the patristic sense of uniting knowledge and faith, spirituality and theology. I argue, against Christopher Pramuk’s thesis, that Merton is aligned with Balthasar and eastern orthodox scholars, rather than Karl Rahner. This is grounded on Merton’s strong critique of enlightenment thinking. In chapter two, I argue that Merton’s understanding of man as a ‘microcosm’ and nature as ‘theophany’ resonates strongly with Balthasar but that Merton extends this way of seeing beyond the church. In chapter three, it is suggested that this epistemology emerges in Merton’s poetry and writing. Chapter four concerns Ford’s criteria for a wise polyphonic self and Ford’s own exemplar, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. I argue that Merton can also be regarded as an exemplar of Ford’s model. Chapter five is concerned with Ford’s wisdom-seeking theology, which is contrasted with Balthasar. In conclusion, it is argued that Merton can be regarded as a ‘wise theologian’ in integrating theology with spirituality and practical living.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Phil.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Phil.

Supervisor(s):