Women Mystics in Medieval Europe [Paperback]

Emilie Zum Brunn (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

In an attempt to relate "the lost story of feminine Christianity," this useful anthology gives annotated excerpts from six influential authors and analyzes social and religious movements as expressions of female spirituality. Hildegard of Bingen, a famed 12th-century abbess, preacher, visionary and a prolific writer, had the sanction of the Church because she wrote in Latin, claimed inspiration from the "Living Light" and did not challenge feudal hierarchies. In the next century, however, women mystics who disseminated their works in accessible vernaculars--Dutch, Low German, Flemish and French--caused controversy among the clergy. Their intense lyrical utterances borrowed the language of courtly love and the nuptial imagery of the Song of Songs. Mechthild of Magdeburg, Beatrice of Nazareth, Hadewijch I and II, Marguerite Porete (burned at the stake for her daring) and the Beguines are examined and credited with having developed theories attributed to later, male theologians. Zum Brunn is the author of St. Augustine: Being and Nothingness ; Epiney-Burgard is a freelance writer. Illustrations not seen by PW.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

There seems to be a growing interest in medieval spirituality and, more specifically, feminine Christianity. This succinct yet scholarly introduction to the topic examines the lives of five women mystics (all nuns) and includes selections from their writings--works of unique beauty that at the time were considered heretical but nevertheless influenced later mystics, including Eckhart. Linking Hildegard of Bingen, a Benedictine, to the Beguines is a transcendent view of life and the soul. This view, a major theme of the work, emphasizes self-awareness, freedom, union with God, and the primacy of love--a transmutation of 12th-century courtly love. Provocative biography and theology.
- Carol J. Lichtenberg, Washington State Univ. Lib., Pullman
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Paragon House (August 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1557781966
• ISBN-13: 978-1557781963
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.5 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #977,435 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)