Bartholomew of Farne
Bartholomew of Farne was a Benedictine hermit who lived on the Farne Islands. He is remembered for his monastic life at Durham and his subsequent withdrawal to a solitary existence inspired by a vision of Saint Cuthbert.
- Century
- 12th century
- Country Or Region
- England
Key Facts
- ›Bartholomew of Farne died in 1193.
- ›He was a Benedictine hermit.
- ›He spent time as a monk at Durham.
- ›He relocated to the Farne Islands to live as a hermit.
- ›His vita was written by Geoffrey, a monk of Durham.
- ›He was born Tostig in Whitby, England, to parents of Scandinavian origin.
Tostig, William
About Bartholomew of Farne
Bartholomew of Farne (died 1193) was an English Benedictine hermit. His life is primarily known through his vita, written by Geoffrey, a monk of Durham.
Life and Historical Context
Born Tostig in Whitby to parents of Scandinavian origin, he adopted the name William as a child. He later traveled through Europe, possibly to avoid marriage, and was ordained a priest in Norway. Upon returning to England, he entered the Benedictine monastery at Durham. It was here that Bartholomew experienced a vision of Saint Cuthbert, which led him to dedicate the remaining 42 years of his life as a hermit in Cuthbert's former cell on the Farne Islands.
Significance
Bartholomew of Farne is remembered as a devout religious figure who chose a life of solitude and contemplation on the Farne Islands. His story is rooted in the Benedictine tradition and the veneration of early English saints like Cuthbert. The vita written by Geoffrey serves as a historical document of his ascetic life and spiritual experiences.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Bartholomew of Farne?
Bartholomew of Farne was a Benedictine hermit who lived on the Farne Islands. He had previously been a monk at Durham.
When did Bartholomew of Farne live?
Bartholomew of Farne died in 1193, indicating his primary period of activity was in the 12th century.
What is Bartholomew of Farne known for?
He is known for his life as a hermit on the Farne Islands, to which he retreated after receiving a vision of Saint Cuthbert while a monk at Durham.
Who wrote about Bartholomew of Farne?
His life, or vita, was written by Geoffrey, a monk of Durham.
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