Herlewin facts for kids
Ethelmaer, also known as Elmer or Aelmer, was an English writer who lived a simple and devoted life. He was also called Herlewin. He is remembered for his spiritual writings. Ethelmaer passed away in 1137.
Contents
Ethelmaer: A Monk and Writer
Ethelmaer became the prior of Christ Church, Canterbury, in 1128. A prior is a leader in a monastery, similar to an abbot. People described him as a very religious and honest person.
His Role at Canterbury
In 1136, Ethelmaer was involved in a disagreement. He supported Archbishop William of Corbeuil in a dispute with the monastery. This argument was about the church of St. Martin at Dover. Ethelmaer's honest nature led him to take the Archbishop's side.
His Death
Ethelmaer died on May 11, 1137. His life was dedicated to his faith and his role within the church.
Ethelmaer's Writings
The name Elmer is a simpler version of the old English name Æthelmær. Ethelmaer was known for his writings, which focused on spiritual topics.
What He Wrote
A historian named Leland found two of Ethelmaer's works. One was a collection of homilies, which are religious speeches or sermons. The other was a treatise called 'De exercitiis spiritualis vitæ'. This title means 'On the exercises of the spiritual life'.
Surviving Manuscripts
A very important collection of old books, called the Cottonian Library, once held a manuscript by Ethelmaer. It was titled 'Ælmeri monachi ecclesiæ Christi Cantuariensis epistolæ'. This means 'Letters of Elmer, Monk of Christ Church, Canterbury'. The book discussed topics like having a pure heart and the importance of respecting God.
The Fire of 1865
Sadly, this valuable manuscript was almost completely destroyed in a big fire on July 10, 1865. Only a few burned pieces of it remain today. Luckily, another copy of his work exists. It is kept in the library of Trinity College, Cambridge. Other works by Ethelmaer were also mentioned by another writer named Bale.
