Date of Award
5-1954
Degree Type
Master's Essay - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
History
First Advisor
R.N Hamilton
Abstract
Saint Teresa of Avila is one of the greatest of Spanish saints. She is the foundress of the Reformed Order of Carmel. The Discalced Carmelite nuns and friars hold her especially dear as their "Holy Mother." The world has also heard of her activities as a foundress and reformer, but these attributes do not make her greatly different from many other saints. It is because Teresa was one of the great mystics of the Church that she is remembered. Her mysticism is the essence of her particular type of greatness. Her statue in Saint Peter ' s is aptly entitled ''Mater Spiritualism." Although Saint Teresa has never been declared a Doctor of the Church because of her sex, the Church recognizes her immense contributions to mystical theology. Her teaching has been called "heavenly doctrine" by the Church. Many have been nourished by "her inspired teaching" and have learned from her "the spirit of godly service." This sixteenth century woman, who combined the virtues of Martha and Mary, is the greatest Spanish authoress and perhaps the greatest woman in all of Spanish history.
Recommended Citation
Westfahl, Lenore, "The Spiritual Philosophy of Saint Teresa of Avila" (1954). Master's Essays (1922 - ). 2643.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/essays/2643
Comments
Department of History Course 231, Marquette University, OK for B. Plan Essay, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.