Contents
Map of Monastic Egypt iv
Abbreviations v
Introduction vii
Chapter 1 In the Heart of the Desert 3
Chapter 2 The Men 12
Chapter 3 Women and Children 24
Chapter 4 Habitat 39
Chapter 5 Clothing 51
Chapter 6 Diet 61
Chapter 7 Life in the Cell 82
Chapter 8 A Day in the Life of the Anchorite 96
Chapter 9 The Hidden Activity 112
Chapter 10 Elders and Disciples 126
Chapter 11 Welcoming Visitors 139
Chapter 12 Outings and Trips 150
Chapter 13 The Community Weekend 162
Chapter 14 Angels and Demons 174
Chapter 15 The Desert Bestiary 194
Chapter 16 The Wonders of God 207
Chapter 17 From the Desert to the Promised Land 223
Epilogue 239
Chronological Landmarks 243
Bibliography
I. Sources 246
11. General Bibliography 248
111. Special Studies 250
Index of Names 253