The Seclusion of Eustochium: Paschasius Radbertus and the Nuns of Soissons
Hannah W. Matis
This article examines three works by the ninth-century theologian, Paschasius Radbertus, all addressed to Carolingian community of religious women at Notre Dame de Soissons. In addition being valuable sources for Mariologist, these provide insights into complex social world women. Written time implementation monastic reforms Benedict Aniane, Radbert's texts can be read as responses imposition a stricter form claustration on women's communities. Drawing patristic model Jerome and Eustochium in particular, spirituality stresses contributions through intercessory prayer, liturgy, correct doctrine. Radbert alternately emphasizes important role played widows houses encourages younger members not leave shelter life. commentary Psalm 44 (45) meditates text that would have been significant nuns' consecrations, deliberately employing language paralleled conventions secular marriage. conclusion, nuns bear interesting resemblances twelfth-century Cistercian spirituality.
Church History