English Spirituality in the Age of Wyclif

John Wyclif is usually remembered as an early reformer and sponsor of the first complete translation of the Bible into English. Less widely understood, but crucial to his contribution to spiritual renewal in England and Europe, is the theological grounding he provides for individual faith experience. Wyclif lived in a time in which testimony concerning personal encounter with God began to overshadow and radically qualify formal presentation of a traditional dogma. This anthology, intended for the general reader and student alike, contains some of the best spiritual writings from the age of Wyclif, including a particularly rich representation from distinguished women. Fresh translations of classic texts by authors such as Richard Rolle, Julian of Norwich. Margery Kempe, the author of The Cloud of Unknouing, and Walter Hilton are accompanied by translations of work not previously available, including key writings of Wyclif and others on Scripture and the spiritual life. Extracts from the Wycliffite Bible are also included. David Lyle Jeffrey has provided an extensive historical introduction at the outset of the volume and has endeavored to offer as broadly representative a sampling of devotional writing in the period as possible. The resulting collection affords an introduction to spirituality in Wyclif's day that is both faithful and accessible. Contemporary readers will be able to acquire a sense of strong linkage between this period and our own and yet recognize differences of emphasis that offer a challenge to our reflection on matters of faith and life. Book jacket.

David Lyle Jeffrey is Distinguished Professor of Literature and Humanities at Baylor University, Waco, Texas.