Retractationes is a work by Augustine that holds a significant place in the history of Christian thought, in which he critically reevaluates his own writings. Published by Dergâh Publications in 2025, this text is a fundamental document for understanding the evolution of Augustine’s theological and philosophical thought.

Subject

In this work, Augustine identifies and corrects the errors in thought, interpretation, and sourcing present in the writings he produced throughout his own life. The text functions not only as a personal confession but also as a historical examination of the theological debates of his time. Here, Augustine transparently reveals his own intellectual process and the developmental trajectory of Christian theology.

Themes

• Critical Self-Examination: The author's reevaluation of his intellectual output is presented as an example of self-inquiry and intellectual honesty.
• Theological Development: The transformation of Christian theology is traced alongside Augustine’s process of intellectual maturation.
• Period Philosophy: The text is situated within the context of mystical, Platonic, and early Church debates.

Narration and Style

Augustine employs a clear, direct, and concise narrative style. The text is at the intersection of academic criticism and personal theological confession. The analysis, while using the terminology of the period, is presented with a simplicity that makes the text accessible to a contemporary reader.