Publisher's Synopsis
The second volume of Richard Rufus of Cornwall: Scriptum in Metaphysicam Aristotelis promises to reshape and deepen scholarly understanding of the reception of Aristotle's Metaphysics in the Latin West. Rufus, a leading voice in 13th-century Western philosophy, offers profound insights into Aristotelian thought that bring fresh interpretive perspectives. His detailed treatment of substance, the unity of definition, and the nuanced relationship between the dialectician and the philosopher is especially noteworthy. While Rufus' reading of the text draws heavily on Ibn Rushd's exposition, his interpretations are distinctive in their originality and independence, enriching our comprehension of such influences on Western thinkers. The depth and clarity of Rufus' philosophical insights rival those in Aquinas' commentary, frequently providing a more detailed analytical perspective. He adeptly addresses critical questions that not only enhance our understanding of medieval thought but also touch upon key issues central to modern debates. Rufus' examination of the unity of the object of definition - a topic currently at the forefront of scholarly discussion - is both innovative and unmatched. His approach, contrasting the realms of logic and metaphysics, presents a refreshing challenge to modern viewpoints, often surpassing them in insight. This meticulously edited volume is indispensable for scholars wishing to learn more about a significant, albeit currently lesser-known, intellectual figure of the era. It is equally essential for anyone deeply interested in Aristotelian perspectives on substance, essence, and unity.
