Albertus Magnus

Albertus Magnus
A depiction of Albertus Magnus
Born	c. 1200 Lauingen, Duchy of Bavaria
Died	15 November 1280 Cologne, Holy Roman Empire
Scientific career
Fields	Philosophy, Theology, Natural Sciences
Notable students	Thomas Aquinas

Albertus Magnus (c. 1200 – 15 November 1280), also known as Saint Albert the Great and Albert of Cologne, was a German Catholic Dominican friar and bishop. He was a renowned philosopher and theologian of the Middle Ages, and is considered one of the greatest German philosophers and theologians of the medieval period. He was later canonized as a saint and recognized as a Doctor of the Church.

Early Life and Education

Albertus Magnus was born in Lauingen, in the Duchy of Bavaria, around the year 1200. He was educated at the University of Padua, where he was introduced to the works of Aristotle, which would greatly influence his later work. He joined the Dominican Order in 1223 and continued his studies in theology and philosophy.

Academic Career

Albertus Magnus became a lecturer at the University of Paris, where he taught alongside other notable scholars of the time. He was instrumental in the introduction of Aristotelian philosophy to the medieval curriculum, integrating it with Christian theology. His most famous student was Thomas Aquinas, who would go on to become a central figure in Scholasticism.

Contributions to Science and Philosophy

Albertus Magnus was a prolific writer, and his works covered a wide range of subjects, including logic, metaphysics, ethics, and natural sciences. He is credited with the discovery of the element arsenic and made significant contributions to the study of botany, zoology, and astronomy. His approach to science was empirical, emphasizing observation and experimentation.

Influence on Theology

In theology, Albertus Magnus sought to reconcile the philosophy of Aristotle with Christian doctrine. His theological works include commentaries on the Bible and treatises on the nature of God, the soul, and the sacraments.

Legacy

Albertus Magnus was canonized as a saint by Pope Pius XI in 1931 and declared a Doctor of the Church. His feast day is celebrated on November 15. He is the patron saint of scientists and philosophers.

Also see

• Thomas Aquinas
• Scholasticism
• Aristotelianism
• Dominican Order
• Middle Ages