On Christian Teaching (or De Doctrina Christiana) is one of Augustine's most important works on the Christian tradition. Undertaken at the same time as the Confessions, it was written to enable students of Christianity to be their own interpreters of the Bible. In so doing Augustine provides an outline of Christian theology, a detailed discussion of ethical problems, and a fascinating early contribution to sign theory. He also makes a systematic attempt to determine what elements of classical `pagan' education are permissible for a Christian. This long-needed, up-to-date translation gives a close but stylish representation of Augustine's thought and expression.
