Valuation Allowance for Deferred Taxes (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at end of period	$ 318,611	$ 487,745
Valuation allowance for deferred taxes
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of period	487,745	469,067	375,301
Additions charged to costs and expenses	30,957	69,685	46,825
Additions/(Reductions) charged to other accounts	(121,840)	(39,065)	76,489
Reductions charged to costs and expenses	(78,251)	(11,942)	(29,548)
Balance at end of period	$ 318,611	$ 487,745	$ 469,067