Saxon Female Monasticism c.852–1024
Sarah Greer
The suggestion that early medieval Saxon female monasticism is unique or exceptional for its intensity and prestige dominates current scholarship. Explanations this exceptionality have focused on an apparent preponderance of widows in Saxony a regional association commemoration with women rather than reformed monks clerics. Instead, chapter argues Saxony’s later conversion to Christianity, compared the rest Carolingian Empire, more crucial factor spread monasteries throughout region. It traces timeline known convents highlight foundation new was not steadily increasing across ninth tenth centuries, but experienced ebbs flows popularity response other social political factors.
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