Allegorical Form and Theory in Hildegard of Bingen's Books of Visions

This book explores how Hildegard of Bingen's three books of visions use allegorical vision as a form of knowledge, linking it to theories of cognition, interpretation, and prophecy. It argues that the form of the allegorical vision is specific to Hildegard's position and the transformations in the prescholastic intellectual milieu, combining traditional forms of knowledge in innovative ways.

Format: Hardback
Length: 291 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the profound exploration of how Hildegard of Bingen's three visionary books harness the allegorical vision as a profound form of knowledge. It unveils the intricate relationship between the visionary's utilization of allegory and allegorical exegesis and the theories of cognition, interpretation, and prophecy. The author argues that the allegorical vision is not merely a product of a medieval symbolic mentality but rather a unique manifestation of Hildegard's unique position and the significant transformations sweeping through the prescholastic intellectual milieu, including the evolving use of Scripture and the transition from traditional hermeneutics to cognitive language philosophy. Through meticulous analysis, the book reveals that Hildegard employs traditional forms of knowledge, such as prophecy, vision, monastic theology, and allegorical hermeneutics, in astonishingly innovative ways by seamlessly blending them and revising them to suit her own time. By doing so, she creates a tapestry of wisdom that transcends the boundaries of her era, offering insights and perspectives that continue to resonate with readers to this day. This captivating work not only sheds light on Hildegard's intellectual prowess but also provides a valuable contribution to the study of medieval philosophy, theology, and literature.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 216 x 154 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031171918
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022