Perspective

Augustine writes these Confessions primarily as a religious text to encourage readers to believe in God and follow the Christian church. Due to his intensive philosophical background, the text has a wide appeal to intellectuals, whether they are Christians are not. The early books of the Confessions engage many readers with their frank descriptions of Augustine's temptations and sins. The work has a great interest due to its unique viewpoint, because many readers would expect someone to be proud of such worldly achievements as those of Augustine. When Augustine is repentant and ashamed of his sexual exploits and worldly achievements, this contradicts sharply with the usual assessments of society. For, Augustine's sins, despite some of the graphic detail, are not really such horrible deeds. Augustine's remorse over sins that are often seen today as small inconveniences has an impact even on a modern audience.

The point of view...