AUDIO

Illuminations: A Novel of Hildegard von Bingen

by Mary Sharratt
8 CDs. library ed. unabridged. 10 hrs. Tantor Audio. 2012. ISBN 9781452640778. $71.99; 1 MP3-CD. library/retail eds.; digital download. F
COPY ISBN
The extraordinary 12th-century nun's sketchy biography forms the basis of this feminist tale, featuring a strong, independent woman whose parents sent her away at age eight to be the companion to a 16-year-old religious fanatic, Jutta Von Spondheim. For 30 years, Hildegard lived in a walled-up area of the Disibodenberg monastery, only to emerge when Jutta died. Once free, Hildegard, having experienced religious visions since childhood, established and led her own convent, composing music and writing theological texts. Sharrott (Daughters of the Witching Hill; The Real Minerva) successfully articulates her subject's religious nature while stressing her human qualities. Tavia Gilbert's thoughtful reading captures Hildegard's voice as she ages from eight to over 80.
VERDICT This highly religious audiobook will appeal largely to listeners who wish to learn more about this newly canonized saint as well as those interested in the medieval church. ["Interest in Hildegard will likely increase this year following her long-overdue canonization and receipt of the title "Doctor of the Church…." Sharratt's well-timed and well-written portrait, both admiring and humanizing, should please readers looking for an accessible way to learn more about the life of this fascinating medieval woman," read the review of the Houghton Harcourt hc, LJ 8/12.—Ed.] [See also the review of the DVD Hildegard of Bingen and the Living Light, p. 54.]
Reviewed by Nancy R. Ives, SUNY at Geneseo , May 01, 2013
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

MEDIA

The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams
by Frey, Darcy
MEDIA

The Bitter Truth
by Williams, Shanora
MEDIA

Southern Man
by Iles, Greg
MEDIA

Little Rot
by Emezi, Akwaeke
MEDIA

The Phoenix Ballroom
by Hogan, Ruth
MEDIA

Horror Movie
by Tremblay, Paul
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?