Monasticism, Mysticism and Metaphysics: Themes in Medieval Christian Spirituality (2026) course
An introduction to the roots and types of spirituality in the Christian tradition up to the late Medieval period. The course also will explore a number of spiritual traditions within Christianity to place them in their historical and philosophical contexts.
The focus is on the Greek roots of Christian spirituality, as well as monastic, Celtic, and Orthodox spiritualities.
We will discuss issues of interpretation with classical spiritual texts and explore different ways of interpreting and applying ideas in our reading of these texts.
This excellent introduction to the historical study of Christian Spirituality is part of the Christian Spirituality postgraduate studies programme and is open to ‘auditors’ eg those who join the course without receiving academic credit.
What does it mean to audit a course?
This course would made 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.
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Learn more about postgraduate study in Christian Spirituality
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. The audit fee and hospitality prices are reviewed annually with any changes effective from 1 July.