Why read How to Live Like a Monk?

Book cover of How to Live Like a Monk: Medieval Wisdom for Modern Life

Book description

We know that they prayed, sang, and wore long robes, but what was it really like to be a monk? Though monastic living may seem unimaginable to us moderns, it has relevance for today. This book illuminates the day-to-day of medieval European monasticism, showing how you can apply the principles…

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Why read it?

1 author picked How to Live Like a Monk as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Hana Videen

Author

This is a medieval history unlike any other you’ll read, literally bringing the past into the present. How do medieval thoughts and practices relate to modern life, from the usefulness of minimalism to church "vision boards" to the healing properties of green spaces?

Cybulskie is lightheartedly critical of certain practices of the past but is always respectful, never treating people as strange or backward.

Illustrated with images from medieval manuscripts, this book covers everything from Easter ball games to party saint Brigid to Benedict’s vision of a room for communal undies. We see medieval religious folks interested in science and…

From Hana's list on books with a unique perspective of the medieval past.