Listening to Edith Stein: Wisdom for a New Century

Book excerpt: In addition to exploring and dialoging with others in the history of philosophy as well as her contemporaries, Edith Stein—Teresa Benedicta of the Cross— (1891-1942) has added her own voice to some of the fundamental questions that have been taken up by great minds over the centuries, from Aristotle to Aquinas and beyond. Stein did not simply bring together the work of the various great philosophers and theologians; rather, she delved into their work after having first wrestled with the topics themselves. These fifteen essays by leading international Stein scholars demonstrate the breadth and depth Stein’s writings offer: a wide terrain for scholarly exploration as well as for the general reader seeking to glean St. Edith Stein’s wisdom on prayer, renewal and feminism. This newest Carmelite Studies volume offers a unique opportunity to “listen” to the voice and wisdom of this 20th century philosopher, convert, Carmelite and martyr. Includes a comprehensive index, a complete list of all editions of Edith Stein’s works in both German and English, and biographical sketches of the contributors.