Agnes Blannbekin, Viennese Beguine: Life and Revelations

by Ulrike Wiethaus

Overview

Female mysticism, usually nourished in contemplative surroundings, in Blannbekin's case drew its inspiration from urban life; Weidhaus identifies her visions as 'street mysticism'.

This early example of a spiritual diary incorporating the visions of a female mystic offers a glimpse of religious women's daily life and spiritual practices. Agnes Blannbekin was from an Austrian farming family, but as a Beguinelived an urban life: Ulrike Weithaus refers to her experiences as 'street mysticism'. Blannbekin's spiritual life revolved around the liturgical cycles of the church year, but also embraced the opportunities and vagaries of city life. Her visions comment on memorable events such as a popular bishop's visit to town during which people were trampled to death; the consequences of a rape committed by a priest; thefts of the Eucharist and the work of witches. Christ, for Blannbekin, is not only bridegroom, but also shopkeeper, apothecary, and axe-wielding soldier, and it was her vision of swallowing Christ's foreskin which led to the eventual censorship of her works. Life and Revelations has only recently been rediscovered by Austrian scholar Peter Dinzelbacher, and this translation is based on his critical edition.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780859916349
Publisher:	BOYDELL & BREWER INC
Publication date:	03/21/2002
Series:	ISSN
Pages:	192
Product dimensions:	5.43(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Ulrike Wiethaus is Associate Professor, Interdisciplinary Appointments, Wake Forest University.

Editorial Reviews

Scholars of women's spirituality will welcome this entrée to th etext of a lively, hitherto inaccessible author.

CATHOLIC HISTORICAL REVIEW

Scholars of women's spirituality will welcome this entrée to th etext of a lively, hitherto inaccessible author.

CATHOLIC HISTORICAL REVIEW [hardback edition]

Scholars of women's spirituality will welcome this entrée to th etext of a lively, hitherto inaccessible author. CATHOLIC HISTORICAL REVIEW [hardback edition]

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