Palladius of Galatia, bishop of Helenopolis, was a devoted disciple of Saint John Chrysostom. He is best remembered for his work, the Lausiac History, a compilation of biographies and spiritual teachings of ascetics. Palladius's deep engagement with monastic life led him to Egypt, where he encountered the Desert Fathers, the foundational figures of Christian monasticism. His writings offer a unique window into early Christian asceticism and spiritual practice.
The two-volume work, published between 1898 and 1904, features Palladius' Greek text alongside critical notes that delve into the intricacies of Egyptian monasticism. It offers a comprehensive discussion, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the historical and cultural aspects of monastic life in ancient Egypt.
Palladius wrote in the 5th century AD. His is the latest of Roman agricultural texts and perhaps for that reason was the treatise most widely distributed in the medieval world, being translated into Italian, Catalan and Middle English, among other languages. Later, Palladius fell into neglect as the Renaissance preferred more classical authors (Cato, Varro, Columella.
Being Histories of the Anchorites, Recluses, Monks, Coenobites, and Ascetic Fathers...]
Focusing on Egyptian monasticism, this work offers a historical account of the lives and practices of anchorites, monks, and ascetic fathers from A.D. 250 to A.D. 400. It includes significant texts such as "The Life of St. Anthony" by Athanasius, "The Paradise" by Palladius, "The Rule of Pachomius," and "The History of the Monks" by Jerome. This one-volume edition preserves the original 1934 format, providing valuable insights into early Christian monastic life and practices.