Feminae: Medieval Women and Gender Index


  • Record Number: 5353
  • Author(s)/Creator(s):
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  • Title: Aldhelm's De virginitate - Patristic Pastiche or Innovative Exposition?
  • Source: Peritia: Journal of the Medieval Academy of Ireland 12, ( 1998): Pages 271 - 295.
  • Description:
  • Article Type: Journal Article
  • Subject (See Also): Aldhelm, Bishop of Sherborne, Saint- Prosa de Virginitate Chastity Gender in Literature Latin Literature Marriage Patristics Sources Virginity
  • Award Note:
  • Geographic Area: British Isles
  • Century: 7-8
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  • Abstract: Aldhelm's "De virginitate" exists within a network of writings focused on the eulogisation of a very central christian ideal, "virginitas." Initially, it will be argued that Aldhelm is drawing on the works of the Greek and Latin Fathers. This will be followed by a discussion on the three states of perfection. Finally, there is an exploration of Aldhelm's concept of virginity. It will be argued that Aldhelm's ideal is as much a reflection of the contemporary situation as an indication of his indebtedness to a patristic tradition. [Reproduced by permission of Brepols Publishers.]
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  • Year of Publication: 1998.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN/ISBN: 03321592