CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2019	Feb. 28, 2018	Feb. 28, 2019	Feb. 28, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 2,753	$ (18,221)	$ (14,699)	$ (12,995)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments	7,433	13,237	(743)	16,135
Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Adjustment Related to Divested Business, Net Of Tax	34,909	67,645	34,909	67,645
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans	95	127	327	254
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	42,437	81,009	34,493	84,034
Comprehensive income	$ 45,190	$ 62,788	$ 19,794	$ 71,039