Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities Pretax Gains (Losses) On Derivatives Not Accounted For As Hedging Instruments (Details) (Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2014	Feb. 28, 2013	Feb. 28, 2014	Feb. 28, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Pretax gain (loss) on derivative instruments	$ 79,681	$ (84,039)	$ 59,469	$ (413,946)
Commodity and Freight Derivatives [Member] | Cost of goods sold
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Pretax gain (loss) on derivative instruments	81,210	(102,006)	61,421	(430,290)
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Cost of goods sold
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Pretax gain (loss) on derivative instruments	(1,581)	17,903	(2,003)	16,218
Interest rate derivatives | Interest, net
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Pretax gain (loss) on derivative instruments	$ 52	$ 64	$ 51	$ 126