This is a collection of papers from a conference held at St. Patrick's College, Manly, New South Wales, Australia, from July 12–15, 1990. This special issue focuses on exploring the concept of 'tradition' from various perspectives, particularly within the context of classics, theology, and Western thought. This book examines the concepts of tradition (singular) and traditions (plural), exploring how beliefs, customs, and knowledge are transmitted from generation to generation, and how they shape cultural and intellectual identity. This book serves as an academic reference for scholars examining how the past (tradition) continues to influence and shape modern thought. The papers in this book generally draw from studies in history, ancient literature, and philosophy, reflecting the journal Prudentia's focus on the ancient world. The conference discussions explore the role of tradition in the foundations of knowledge, cultural transmission, and inherited religious and philosophical interpretations.