Hugh of St. Victor: Medieval Wisdom for Modern Educators

Abstract

Using Hugh of St. Victor (1096–1141) as an example, the article outlines key features of medieval educational assumptions and practices that can be drawn upon to challenge and offer an alternative to the ethos and priorities in universities today. Hugh’s writings are analysed with a view to demonstrating how an approach to education that is illuminated by religious faith has the resources to provide a more holistic route to higher learning than is currently available. His understanding of the arts, reading, memory and restoration, together with his treatment of the discipline of the body, the role of example and imitation, and the influence of living in community on student learning – all combine to promote rationality, realism and virtue in service of wisdom.