"Author of the first true summa of theology, William of Auxerre (d. 1231), early magister at the University of Paris, is considered a seminal figure in early thirteenth-century scholasticism. From the uncertain climate of the late twelfth century, William's Summa Aurea emerges with impressive originality and scope. Scholars have long recognized his contribution to the evolution of scholastic thought and his influence on later figures, such as Bonaventure and Aquinas. Yet, until now, William has been largely unstudied, his theological achievement and pervasive influence thus remaining shrouded." "This book, the first English-language monograph on William of Auxerre, traces the motif of the spiritual senses through his Summa Aurea, using it as an illuminating and unifying lens through which to appreciate his theology. Given William's importance and his neglect, much commends this study to scholars of medieval theology, philosophy, and spirituality. Bridging a pivotal phase in medieval theology, William incorporates certain twelfth-century monastic sensibilities, while at the same time grappling with the Aristotelian philosophy rapidly gaining currency. This study also highlights William's initiation of scholastic use of the doctrine of the spiritual senses and, finally, it sets the stage for a fuller appreciation of William's wide-ranging influence on later scholastic luminaries."--BOOK JACKET.