A Mediaeval Mystic A Short Account of the Life and Writings of Blessed John Ruysbroeck, Canon Regular of Groenendael A.D. 1293-1381   By: Vincent Scully

A Mediaeval Mystic offers readers a succinct and enlightening account of the life and writings of a lesser-known figure from the Middle Ages: Blessed John Ruysbroeck. In this book, Vincent Scully delves into the life of Ruysbroeck, a Canon Regular of Groenendael who lived from 1293 to 1381.

Scully skillfully brings Ruysbroeck's story to life, effortlessly weaving together historical facts, anecdotes, and excerpts from the mystic's writings. The author's extensive research is evident throughout, presenting readers with a comprehensive and well-rounded understanding of Ruysbroeck's life and spiritual journey.

The book is divided into chapters that tackle different aspects of Ruysbroeck's life, such as his early years, his entrance into the religious life, and his profound mystical experiences. Scully expertly pieces together the mystic's story, painting a vivid picture of a man deeply committed to his faith and dedicated to a life of prayer and contemplation.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Scully's ability to capture the essence and significance of Ruysbroeck's writings. Although the book primarily focuses on the mystic's life, Scully includes ample excerpts from Ruysbroeck's works, offering readers a glimpse into the profound insights and spiritual wisdom that he shared through his writings. These passages are thoughtfully chosen, shedding light on Ruysbroeck's unique blend of mysticism, theology, and practical advice.

Scully's writing style is clear, concise, and engaging, making the book accessible to both scholars and general readers. He strikes a fine balance between providing historical context and delving into the deeper spiritual themes that characterized Ruysbroeck's writings. Moreover, the author does not shy away from examining the challenges and controversies that the mystic faced during his lifetime, allowing readers to appreciate the context in which his remarkable spiritual journey unfolded.

While the book undoubtedly represents a valuable contribution to the study of medieval mysticism, it may leave some readers longing for a more in-depth analysis of Ruysbroeck's writings. Although Scully provides a solid introduction to the mystic's works, those seeking a deeper exploration of his ideas may require further reading. However, this does not undermine the overall quality of this volume, as it successfully achieves its stated purpose of providing a short account of Ruysbroeck's life and writings.

In conclusion, A Mediaeval Mystic is a commendable work that sheds light on the life and writings of Blessed John Ruysbroeck. Vincent Scully's expertise and meticulous research make this book a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the history of mysticism or seeking to explore the journey of a remarkable figure from the Middle Ages.

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Page INTRODUCTION ix I. EARLY YEARS AND EDUCATION 1 II. AS A SECULAR PRIEST IN BRUSSELS 6 III. FALSE MYSTICS 10 IV. THE HERMITAGE OF GROENENDAEL 17 V... Continue reading book >>