Anchoritic Spirituality: Ancrene Wisse and Associated Works

Library Journal

This excellent translation of all extant 13th-century Middle English anchoritic writings is a fine addition to a series for which many libraries should have standing orders. This volume is especially useful for those interested in medieval feminine spirituality and in the development of English prose style (though translation obscures this). It also illustrates the development of alternatives to monasticism for religious women, and includes a useful chapter on the development of Christian spirituality in general. This is recommended for many libraries, and is an essential reference for larger libraries.