Ecstatic transformation : transpersonal psychology in the work of Mechthild of Magdeburg / Ulrike Wiethaus.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Wiethaus, Ulrike.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Visions.

Mechthild, of Magdeburg, approximately 1212-approximately 1282.

Mechthild.

Altered states of consciousness.

Transpersonal psychology.

Mysticism--History--Middle Ages, 600-1500.

Mysticism.

History.

Mysticism--Middle Ages.

Physical Description:

195 pages ; 23 cm

Edition:

First edition.

Place of Publication:

Syracuse, NY : Syracuse University Press, 1996.

Summary:

For the medieval mystic Mechthild of Magdeburg, ecstatic and visionary states expressed not only an intimate relationship with the Divine, but they also served a significant therapeutic function within her religious community. It was through these states that Mechthild articulated a new understanding of Christian spirituality, a remarkably confident view of female teaching authority, and compassion for others. Ulrike Wiethaus compares Mechthild's mystical teachings with modern concepts of humanistic models of spiritual and psychoanalytical approaches and psychophysiological research on altered states. She uses both historical and contemporary methods as building blocks in the ever-changing dialogue of the unexplored territories of the mind. The medieval model illustrated by Wiethaus offers intriguing avenues of reconceptualization in the converging of body and mind, in soul searching, and in what Western culture calls interpersonal growth.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 173-187) and index.

ISBN:

0815626800

081560369X

OCLC:

32431722