Holy Feast and Holy Fast
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1987
464
Book • Nonfiction
Medieval Europe
1987
Adult
18+ years
In Holy Feast and Holy Fast, Caroline Walker Bynum explores the intimate relationship between medieval holy women and food, examining how food's religious significance intertwined with piety, sanctity, and gender roles. Through historical accounts, Bynum highlights miraculous phenomena like inedia and how women related to God via food, impacting their societal roles and perceived spiritual power. The book contains descriptions of eating disorders and self-deprivation.
Informative
Contemplative
Mysterious
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Caroline Walker Bynum's Holy Feast and Holy Fast is widely praised for its groundbreaking exploration of medieval women's spirituality and ascetic practices. Scholars commend its thorough research and engaging prose. However, some criticize its dense theoretical framework and limited accessibility for general readers. Suitable for academia, it offers profound insights into religious history.
Readers who relish Holy Feast and Holy Fast by Caroline Walker Bynum are likely fascinated by medieval studies, religious history, and gender studies. Similar titles that appeal to this audience include The Book of Margery Kempe and Food and Feast in Medieval England.
866 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
464
Book • Nonfiction
Medieval Europe
1987
Adult
18+ years
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