Giovanni Climaco: La Scala del Paradiso (review)
John Chryssavgis
Reviewed by: Giovanni Climaco: La Scala del Paradiso John Chryssavgis Paradiso. Edited and translated by Rosa Maria Parrinello. (Rome: Paoline Publications. 2007. Pp. 638. €48,00.) Less than three decades ago, one would not have expected the ascetical writings of Climacus, seventh-century hermit abbot Sinaite desert, to comprise sufficient appropriate grounds for academic study translation. Yet, only over past years, there been two distinct distinguished editions in Italian language alone—both them from region Turin. In 2005, monastic community Bose published an introduction fresh translation The Ladder Divine Ascent, which centuries has proved influential within both religious lay circles. This year, Parrinello, who lectures Byzantine literature specializes history—and particularly issues related spiritual direction Palestinian monasticism—at University Turin, produced another significant this early classic text. book is part a series on Christian Readings First Millennium, introduced seminal texts East West. With exception Athanasius' Life Anthony (volume 20), Climacus 41) first treatise Egypt, Palestine, Sinai. unique contribution book—beyond fine research—lies substantial (pp. 9–185) as well comprehensive indices (of names themes scriptural patristic references). includes introductory letters or prologue 195–98) concluding letter Treatise Shepherd 525–49). text embellished with rich notes referring sources, while appendices terms 553–84) 585–90) offer analytical fundamental critical aspects at once traditional original masterpiece literature. chapters biographical material (without offering any new information insights into dates author), together detailed exploration textual life Mt. appendix examines such as: accidia, eros, philautia, amerimnia, anachoresis, body flesh, heart, deification, discernment, tears mourning, silence stillness, toil, apatheia, gluttony, insensitivity, parrhesia, martyrdom, repentance, prayer Jesus Prayer, fear, remembrance death, God, renunciation, rest, pride, xeniteia, theology, humility, vainglory, nepsis. second contains helpful discussions "alphabet" cited texts, Letters Barsanuphius John; it also describes nuances "cenobium" "community" ascetic regulations regarding food drink. many ways, work Parrinello constitutes culmination numerous scholars, editors, translators that preceded (from volumes Trevisan, Turin 1941), same time providing synthesis secondary sources [End Page 133] appeared recent years. It important complement fitting completion invaluable hitherto Ladder. Brunswick, Maine Copyright © 2008 Catholic America Press
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