The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite presents a profound exploration of neo-Platonic theology and metaphysics, capturing the intricate relationship between God, the cosmos, and human experience. Written in a style that blends lyrical prose with dense philosophical argumentation, these treatises delve into hierarchical structures of being and the divine, shaping the early Christian understanding of mysticism and angelology. Contextually situated within the 5th and 6th centuries, Dionysius's works reflect an era grappling with the synthesis of Hellenistic thought and Christian doctrine, thus laying the groundwork for subsequent theological developments. Dionysius, believed to be a Christian philosopher and theologian from the Athenian Areopagus, was heavily influenced by earlier philosophers such as Plotinus and Proclus. His unique perspective as a convert to Christianity infused with neo-Platonic philosophy catalyzed his writing, allowing him to articulate complex spiritual realities within a Christian framework. His anonymity and the attributed connection to the New Testament figure has further cemented his significance in both philosophical and theological discourse. Readers seeking a deeper understanding of early Christian mysticism and its philosophical underpinnings will find this collection indispensable. The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite is not just a reflection on the divine; it challenges readers to contemplate their own spiritual ascent through a rich tapestry of ideas that resonate throughout Western thought.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.
- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.
- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.
- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work's strengths.
- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.
- Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.

Dionysius the Areopagite is a quasi-historical figure whose works have engendered significant debate among scholars regarding their origin and impact on Christian thought. Traditionally, he is associated with the convert of St. Paul, as mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 17:34). However, his corpus, often referred to as 'The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite,' is more widely attributed to an author writing under a pseudonym known as 'Pseudo-Dionysius' in the late 5th to early 6th century AD. These texts have had a profound influence on both Eastern and Western Christian mysticism and theology. The corpus typically includes four treatises—'The Divine Names,' 'The Mystical Theology,' 'The Celestial Hierarchy,' and 'The Ecclesiastical Hierarchy'—and ten letters offering insights into Dionysian spirituality and Neoplatonism. His literary style is marked by a synthesis of Christian theology with Neoplatonic philosophy, particularly through the concept of the via negativa, which emphasizes knowing God by stating what God is not rather than by affirmative descriptions. Despite historical uncertainties around the true authorship, the attribution to Dionysius the Areopagite added considerable weight to the works as they were integrated into the theological frameworks of theologians such as Thomas Aquinas and remained integral to various mystical theologies.