Medieval Philosophy

by Peter S. Adamson

the twelfth century: “interiorization.” It was a period when thinkers urged us to turn our gaze inward in search of divinity, and to reshape the inner self that we find there so that it reflects God’s image more truly. We’ve just seen Hugh understanding Noah’s Ark in this way. Abelard’s idea that moral goodness lies in the soul’s intentions, and not outward actions, is another example. This observation is illuminating to a degree, but, like any historical generalization, should be qualified with a few caveats. For one thing, it was not really all that new. Rather, Hugh and Richard of Saint Victor were laying particular emphasis on long-standing contemplative themes in the Augustinian, monastic, and Platonist traditions. For another thing, these Victorine heroes of interiority also laid great emphasis on the beauty of nature. Contemplation can be directed outwards, as well as inwards.