The Merging of Eremitic and “Affectivist” Spirituality in Richard Rolle’s Reshaping of Contemplation

Abstract

Originated in the writings of Thomas Gallus, in the thirteenth-century a new interpretation of contemplation, “affectivism,” began to emerge. This study of the writings of the fourteenth-century hermit Richard Rolle explores the relationship between “affectivism” and eremiticism within Rolle’s understanding of contemplation, with particular reference to Rolle’s adaption of ideas that originate in the writings of Richard of St. Victor. Central to Rolle’s “affectivism” appears to be a reinvention of the eremitic life, in which Rolle spiritualizes central concepts such as stability and enclosure. This understanding of Rolle presents a challenge to Nicholas Watson’s reading of Rolle’s account of contemplative prayer by illustrating the necessity of seeing Rolle’s reinvention of authority within both specific contemplative and eremitic contexts.