John of La Rochelle

John of La Rochelle (c. 1200 – 8 February 1245), also known as Jean de La Rochelle, John of Rupella, and Johannes de Rupella, was a French Franciscan, scholastic philosopher, and theologian. Born in La Rochelle towards the end of the 12th century, he entered the Franciscan Order at an early age and became a pupil of Alexander of Hales. He was the first Franciscan to obtain a bachelor's degree in theology from the University of Paris. John of La Rochelle contributed significantly to the 'Summa fratris Alexandri', a theological summa written by Alexander of Hales. By 1238, he held the title of master of theology and participated in discussions convened by William of Auvergne, Bishop of Paris, regarding ecclesiastical benefices. He was also involved in the dissensions within the Franciscan order concerning Brother Elias. In 1241, he, along with Alexander of Hales, Robert of Bascia, and Odo of Rigaud, was tasked with explaining the Rule of St. Francis, a work that received approbation from the Order's General Chapter in Bologna in 1242 and became known as the "Exposition of the Four Masters." John of La Rochelle died in 1245, the same year as his teacher, Alexander of Hales. His major works include 'Tractatus de divisione potentiarum animae' (c. 1233) and 'Summa de anima' (c. 1235), both of which are highly regarded and frequently found in European libraries. He also authored treatises on virtues, vices, the articles of faith, the ten commandments, biblical commentaries, sermons, and disputed questions on grace. John's philosophical contributions, particularly concerning the soul, demonstrate originality and engagement with various sources including Plato, Aristotle, Seneca, Avicenna, and Augustine.