The Life of Teresa of Jesus: the Autobiography of Teresa of Avila

Jacket Description/Flap: A religious classic for centuries, this is the compelling autobiography of the great Spanish saint, mystic, and reformer, with an illuminating introduction by one of the world's leading experts on feminine spirituality. Biographical Note: TERESA OF AVILA(1515-82), also called St. Teresa of Jesus, was a Spanish nun and one of the great mystics and religious women of the Roman Catholic Church. She was the leader of the Carmelite Reform, which restored and emphasized the austerity and contemplative character of this religious order. Canonized in 1622, she was elevated to Doctor of the Church by Pope Paul VI in 1970, the first woman to be so honored. E. ALLISON PEERS is the translator of many great works of Spanish verse and mysticism. Marc Notes: An Image book--T.p. verso.; With new introd. Originally published: New York: Image Books by special arrangement with Sheed & Ward, 1960.; Includes bibliographical references. Publisher Marketing: Written in 1565 at the request of her confessor, St. Teresa's autobiography is at once an extraordinary chronicle of a life governed by the desire to draw closer to God and a literary masterpiece that brings to life a woman of candor, humor, and great spiritual strength. Teresa writes of her early life, the conflicts and crises she faced, and her decision to enter a life of prayer. Her lyrical, almost erotic descriptions of ecstatic experiences call to mind the senuous language of the Song of Songs.

Contributor Bio:  Peers, E Allison E. ALLISON PEERS was the translator of many great works of Spanish verse and mysticism. Contributor Bio:  Teresa of Avila Teresa of Avila was born in Spain. She entered the Carmelita Order at the age of 20. Contributor Bio:  Teresa Mother Teresa won many awards, including the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize. After her death in 1997, a popular movement for her canonization quickly sprung up, and she was beatified in 2003. Contributor Bio:  Peers, E Allison R. H. J. Steuart was a Jesuit and scholar