This is a work of rare prophetic brilliance by Josef Piper, one of this century's most profound and lucid expositors of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas. This book was written to throw light on an ancient question that has vexed and tormented many. What is the nature of "The End" toward which, even now, the world and men are moving?

No writer of our time is better equipped to answer that question than the late Josef Pieper. In this short work, he provides the most rigorous and sustained philosophical analysis, anchored to "the primeval rock of theological pronouncement", in order precisely to understand the finalities of time and history.

"Between the nihilism and horror of an everlasting desolation, on the one hand, and cheap technocratic optimism, on the other, Professor Pieper reveals the essential character of Christian hope. A wonderful meditation for the coming millennium."
- Regis Martin
Author, The Last Things

"Philosophy has never had a more convincing defender than Josef Pieper. Ignatius Press continues to put us in its debt by making available to English readers more and more titles of this engaging, artful and edifying Thomist. Pieper speaks out of the abundance of his heart and mind where knowledge has become wisdom."
- Ralph McInerny
University of Notre Dame