Sites of the Ascetic Self

Explore the profound intersections of ethics and subjectivity in Niki Kasumi Clements' insightful work, Sites of the Ascetic Self. Published by the University of Notre Dame Press in 2020, this 277-page hardback invites readers to engage with the significant contributions of the fifth-century ascetic, John Cassian. Clements delves into Cassian's tales of extreme asceticism and the transformative religious experiences of desert elders, revealing how their narratives have shaped Christian monastic traditions. This thought-provoking study not only reconsiders contemporary debates but also enriches our understanding of spiritual practices and their impacts on personal identity. Perfect for scholars, theologians, and anyone interested in the complexities of ascetic life, Sites of the Ascetic Self is a must-read that bridges past and present philosophical inquiries.