This collection brings together thirty-five letters and sermons of Augustine, Bishop of Hippo from 396-430 AD, that deal with political matters. The letters and sermons are both practical and principled and treat many essential themes in Augustine's thought, including the responsibilities of citizenship, the relationship between the church and secular authority, religious coercion, and war and peace. These texts complement Augustine's classic The City of God, and give students direct insight into the political and social world of late antiquity with which Augustine was immediately involved.

"The volume provides a splendid insight into Augustine's political thought in action." Theological Studies

"Atkins and Dodaro have successfully made these texts with their fascinating range of issues accessible to a wide audience. Their translation is fluent and accurate. They have utilized and expanded the supports for the reader very well. In these selections from responses to individuals persons and situations, Augustine demonstrates a personal and pastoral perspective sometimes overshadowed in his more formal writings." Bryn Mawr College Review

"A useful addition to the English translations of his more scholarly works on political philosophy...It is a valuable contribution to Augustinian scholarship and a worthwhile read for anyone interested in political theory or Augustine." Theology Today