Writings on Body and Soul
Aelred of Rievaulx author Bruce L Venarde editor
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Harvard University Press
Published:26th Nov '21
Should be back in stock very soon
Aelred (1110–1167), abbot of Rievaulx Abbey in Yorkshire, has always been a controversial figure. He was beloved by his monks and widely admired, but also sharply criticized for his frankness about his own sinfulness and what some considered his favoritism and excessive leniency.
Writings on Body and Soul includes a selection of the prolific abbot’s theological, historical, and devotional works. Each contains autobiographical elements, showing Aelred at turns confident and fearful, tormented and serene. In A Pastoral Prayer, he asserts his unworthiness and pleads for divine aid in leading his monks wisely and compassionately. Spiritual Friendship adapts Cicero’s dialogue on friendship for Christian purposes. A Certain Marvelous Miracle offers a riveting account of a pregnant teenage nun, the bloody vengeance wreaked on her seducer, and the miracle of her release from her fetters. Finally, Teachings for Recluses, addressed to Aelred’s sister, is a guide for women pursuing solitary religious perfection.
Freshly revised editions of the Latin texts appear here alongside new English translations.
An elegant and readable new translation of these important works…Aelred is indeed fortunate in his translator. -- Kathryn Maude * Speculum *
A welcome addition to Cistercian libraries…Aelred’s appeal as a person, historian, and monastic teacher continues to grow today, a reality testified to by the publication of this lovely little book. People who already know Aelred or who would like to know his works better will pick the volume up with pleasure and want to take it home with them. New translations are always illuminating, and the opportunity provided by this book to read four of Aelred’s works in both English and Latin cannot be overstated. Venarde is to be thanked for accepting the challenge. -- Marsha L. Dutton * Journal of Medieval Latin *
ISBN: 9780674261181
Dimensions: 203mm x 133mm x 23mm
Weight: 454g
384 pages