Abstract
There exists in this life, as a result of our fallen condition, a real temptation to the sin of despair. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate why the theological virtue of hope is utterly essential for the Christian life and beatitude by analysing how it overcomes any and all temptations to despair. In order to achieve this end, this paper first defines what the theological virtue of hope consists of, explaining how it elevates man’s nature so as to desire, efficaciously, his final end: Supernatural beatitude. This paper then defines what exactly despair is, explaining how it results in a direct aversion from God and the promises He has made. In order to demonstrate the necessity of hope for the Christian life and beatitude, this paper then explores how hope overcomes two common occasions of despair: physical suffering and self-condemnation. This paper seeks to present these two experiences as objections to the real possibility of having hope in the midst of such trials. Finally, this paper responds to each of these objections by clearly demonstrating how it is that hope overcomes these temptations to despair, and grants man the capacity to pursue his final end courageously in spite of such trials.
Recommended Citation
Martin, Joel. "Hope Against Despair." Aristos 7, no. 1, art. 5 (2023): 49-58. https://researchonline.nd.edu.au/aristos/vol7/iss1/5
