The problem of evil: the interpretation of Saint Bonaventure

Abstract

On taking Breviloquium as a guide, we can understand how St. Bonaventure analyses the issue of evil and its relation to sin. Man was created to be good and to live in a good world. By sinning, he interferes with the divine plan, establishing evil in the world. God, the first and most perfect principle, however, is perfect; then, He comes to man’s help so that he can overcome sin and evil. Upon reflecting on Philosophy and Theology, Bonaventure discusses the issue of evil origin, transmission and breakthrough, pointing to man’s unique and affirmative role, as he has not lost his natural attraction to virtue; he is still able to do right.