Discovering Simone Weil
Publication Type |
Book Chapter |
Year of Publication |
2007 |
Author |
|
Book |
George Grant : a guide to his thought |
Pages |
180-190 |
Publisher |
University of Toronto Press |
Place Published |
Toronto |
Language |
English |
Chapter |
14 |
Keywords |
|
Annotation |
Forbes begins this chapter with a brief overview of Simone’ Weil’s life and thought followed by a short account of George Grant’s discovery of her work. He then goes on to discuss Grant’s abandoned plan to write a biographical and interpretative guide to Weil in order to present her thought in a systematic manner designed to counteract the presuppositions and prejudices a modern reader might bring to it. Of special concern for Grant, Forbes notes, was the need to clarify for readers the meaning of sanctity, particularly what it means to be a saint and why Weil should be considered one. Grant’s other concern, Forbes goes on to argue, is to help modern readers get past their modern historical consciousness and grasp Weil on her own terms. The chapter concludes with some speculation as to why Grant did not write the book as he intended. |