Medieval Christianity in Practice

This unique book re-creates the practical and imaginative experiences of medieval parishioners, from cradle to grave. This is of compelling interest to historians, religious specialists, and students of literature, for we see here multifarious attempts to reach ordinary people through their own language. We also see the church at work all across Europe, celebrating its saints, discouraging dissidence, and providing for those who would live perfectly. Highly recommended. -- David Wallace, University of Pennsylvania This book offers a unique presentation of the actual practices of medieval Christianity. It will greatly interest medieval religion scholars and serve as a marvelous supplement for courses on the Middle Ages or medieval religion. General readers will find the documents and scholarly discussions fascinating glimpses into the everyday workings of the period. -- Steven Fanning, University of Illinois, Chicago The variety of informative texts and the expertise of the people commenting on them give this stimulating anthology great authority. There is no rival collection that gathers so many experts on medieval religion in one place. -- John Shinners, Saint Mary's College The organization of this collection and the underlying approach are innovative and judicious. This book provides an insightful and interconnected vision of medieval religious practices. -- Teofilo F. Ruiz, University of California, Los Angeles

Provides readers with a sweeping look at the religious practices of the European Middle Ages. This volume assembles sources reflecting different genres, regions, and styles, including prayer books, chronicles, diaries, liturgical books, sermons, hagiography, and handbooks for the laity and clergy.Medieval Christianity in Practice provides readers with a sweeping look at the religious practices of the European Middle Ages. Comprising forty-two selections from primary source materials--each translated with an introduction and commentary by a specialist in the field--the collection illustrates the religious cycles, rituals, and experiences that gave meaning to medieval Christian individuals and communities. This volume of Princeton Readings in Religions assembles sources reflecting different genres, regions, and styles, including prayer books, chronicles, diaries, liturgical books, sermons, hagiography, and handbooks for the laity and clergy. The texts represent the practices through which Christians conducted their individual, family, and community lives, and explores such life-cycle events as birth, confirmation, marriage, sickness, death, and burial. The texts also document religious practices related to themes of work, parish life, and devotions, as well as power and authority. Enriched by expert analysis and suggestions for further reading, Medieval Christianity in Practice gives students and general readers alike the necessary background and foundations for an appreciation of the creativity and multiplicity of medieval Christian religious culture.