Table of Contents

Introduction
1: The Anglo-Saxon and European Background
2: The Rise of the Hermit in England
3: The Rise of the Recluse
4: How Anchorites made a Living
5: Eradicating Sin, in Theory
6: Eradicating Sin, in Practice
7: How Anchorites Helped Others
8: How Anchorites Became Saints
Conclusion
Bibliography
Index

About the Author

Tom Licence took his degrees at Magdalene College, Cambridge, before remaining there as a Research Fellow. He is now a lecturer in medieval history at the University of East Anglia, specializing in Ecclesiastical History.

Reviews

Licence's approach ... is an original and valuable one ... This book will be essential to anyone who is seriously interested in European society in the central Middle Ages.
*Bernard Hamilton, Times Literary Supplement*

As compelling as it is convincing
*Helen Castor, Times Higher Education*

Exemplary study...a penetrating examination of the lives of hermits and recluses...excellent
*Alan Murdie, Fortean Times*

a seminal study of lasting value
*Benedicta Ward, The Journal of Ecclesiastical History*

a carefully researched book, full of judicious insight. It should become essential reading for anyone interested in the religious aspirations of twelfth-century England
*Henrietta Leyser, The Medieval Review*

clear, insightful, and elegant
*Andrew Jotischky, The Historian*