Illuminations: A Novel of Hildegard Von Bingen by Mary Sharratt

Set in the Middle Ages (1098-1179), this is a true story of a fascinating woman Hildegard von Bingen also known as Saint Hildegard and Sibyl of the Rhine. She was a German Benedictine abbess, writer, composer, philosopher, Christian mystic, visionary, and polymath.

Hildegard von Bingen is promised to the church at the age of eight as a companion to a young woman, who chooses to be entombed in a small room. Cold and hungry young Hildegard, living the life she didn’t choose, dreams of roaming the forest and the happy times she spent with her brother. Through a screen she becomes a friend with a young monk, who tells her that she can find her happiness even here. One night she receives a vision from a Lady, who tells her, “You are here for a purpose, though you don’t understand it yet.” And that’s where she’s starting to see some meaning in her life, even though living behind the walls never makes sense to her.

After 30 years, when the sainted magistra dies, Hildegard sees an opportunity for ‘freedom’ and speaks up. Seen as not fit for an anchorite, she is allowed to live as a nun. A new chapter in her life starts. The knowledge she gained from studying herbs, now she applies to patients under guidance of a master physician. She even collects the herbs herself, which brings her the greatest joy.

I wished there was a bit more to the story about the time she spent at the last abbey. That was another chapter in her life, and the happiest.

Despite her harsh youth, she finds joy and true friendship. She achieves what only a handful of women had achieved at her time. She was a daring woman.

The thoughts and observations pouring out of the main character, make this story very real. A bit dark at some points, and yet making it a very interesting read.

Release date: 9 October 2012

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt