Shenoute of Atripe and the Rise of Monastic Education in Egypt

Shenoute of Atripe and the Rise of Monastic Education in Egypt addresses the monastic teachings of Shenoute of Atripe, an Egyptian author and monastic leader of the fourth and fifth centuries CE, as well as the literary and cultural context of his teachings. The first chapter introduces Shenoute and explores the chronology of his life. Considering both known elements and new hints, it offers a new chronology that challenges the traditionally accepted reconstruction, especially with regard to the date of Shenoute’s death. The second chapter focuses on Shenoute’s educational background, particularly the hypothesis that Shenoute received a classical Greek education before becoming a monk. The last three chapters offer an analysis of the education offered by Shenoute, by his monastic predecessors in Egypt, and by Shenoute’s successor Besa.