A deep-dive into some of the key movements and writers in the Western Christian Mystical traditions. This course will look at the development of mysticism in the history of Christianity, focusing on in the Western church and will examine scholarship around mysticism as well as a range of primary texts written by and about mystics.

Dr Michael Hahn will lead an introduction to approaches of studying mysticism and some major themes as well as the Franciscan mystics and some early Protestant approaches to mysticism.

Dr Ann Conway-Jones will teach on Patristic mysticism, particularly those making use of the narrative of Moses on Mt Sinai (pseudo-Dionysius, Gregory of Nyssa and Evagrius of Pontus).

Professor John Arblaster will teach on the Cistercian and Victorine mystics (Bernard, William, Richard) and on the Middle Dutch mystics (focusing on pseudo-Hadewijch and John of Ruusbroec) before John and Michael jointly lead a session on annihilation and deification in mysticism (Angela of Foligno, Marguerite Porete, Meister Eckhart).

Dr Edward Howells will lead two sessions on the Spanish mystics (focusing on Teresa and John), and then I’ll run a session on early Protestant approaches to mysticism.

Professor Jane Shaw will teach on the retrieval of mysticism in the 20th century, focusing particularly on Evelyn Underhill.

This is a postgraduate course open to ‘auditors’ e.g. those not enrolled for academic credit.

What does it mean to audit a course? 

This course would make an excellent addition to a study break, retreat or sabbatical in the beautiful Salisbury Cathedral Close, where residential participants enjoy full board, access to the library and to the pattern of liturgy at Salisbury Cathedral.

Whether it’s cultural events, sightseeing (Stonehenge is nearby for example) or shopping — there’s plenty to do if you’d like to extend your stay the weekend before and after the course. For ideas, visit Salisbury Cathedral Close attraction websites to see what’s on Sarum’s doorstep. Visit the Wiltshire Creative website to view events at nearby Salisbury Playhouse and the Salisbury Arts Centre. The Experience Salisbury website has an excellent city-wide listing of forthcoming events around the city.

Need financial assistance? View our list of grantmaking trusts

Enrolled students also may attend teaching weeks for modules in addition to the modules which they are studying for credit, by permission of the Programme Leader.