medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
In my survey class, I teach the story of the woman taking the baby Jesus and
the legend of St. Nicholas (among other things in the readings chapter) in a
discussion on "popular religion" I try to get the students understanding the
relationship that medieval people had with their saints. There was very much a
sense of quid pro quo, but also faith that the saints could, if property
inspired do great things. In the same chapter there is a bit from St.
Bridget's vision of the Nativity. While I appreciate there is the fear that
these stories can make the ordinary medieval person look superstitious, I try
and show them that this is actually a very active (as opposed to passive)
involvement in religion. Since most of my students insist on thinking of
medieval people in the grip of an all-powerful and often cruel Church, I find
this a good counter point.
It isn't a perfect solution, but it does challenge my students vision of
religious practice.
Katherine
On Fri, 14 Dec 2007 23:42:27 -0600
"George R. Hoelzeman" <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
>
> I have to agree with this statement. I'll also add something medieval
>related.
>
> I'm fascinated by the psychological dynamic, both in myself and in others,
>in which I find similar practices of a past era fascinating and the source of
>a great
> deal of intellectual satisfaction to know, understand and appreciate, yet
>when faced with the same practices today, my response is rather less
>enthusiastic.
>
> But then, I suspect that some of the things we do today will meet with
>similar responses from future generations.
>
> And that's my final word on the subject ;-))
>
> George R. Hoelzeman
>
> On Sat, 15 Dec 2007 05:21:00 GMT, Marjorie Greene wrote:
>
>>medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
>
>>Response to Christine in Baltimore:
>>The practice reeks of superstition and reinforces stereotypes of Christians,
>>especially Catholics, as mindless hicks. Perhaps we could sacrifice some
> chickens while we're at it.
>>This is getting away from medieval religion and I suggest we let it drop. If
>>anyone wishes to bury statues as a means of getting your way, by all means do
> so.
>>MG
>>_____________________________________________________________
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>
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