ABSTRACT
This paper proposes two differing views of theosis within the Western tradition. One can be called the “Plotinian” model that takes its origins from the schools of NeoPlatonism. The second can be called the “Augustinian” model which follows St Augustine’s view of the soul (partly of course developed in reaction to the first model). Having presented these two models of Western theosis, Tyler applies them to the writings of St. Teresa of Avila, and with particular reference to her Interior Castle, while asking the question – which of the two models does Teresa’s picture of theosis more closely resemble?
