ECST 778 The Development and Role of Monasticism in the Late Antique World
This graduate seminar course will examine the monastic practices in Late Antiquity as attested in documentary evidence, such as papyri, ostraka and inscriptions, although hagiographical and archaeological sources will also be considered. Some of the themes addressed in the seminar will be pilgrimage, variation of monastic practices, and similarities and differences across the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Special attention will be paid to the role of women and to the development of asceticism itself. Furthermore, the role of monks as intercessors, peace-makers, and copyists of manuscripts will be explored. There is no language requirement for this seminar.