The Rich and the Pure: Philanthropy and the Making of Christian Society in Early Byzantium

chapters focus on that time period, leaving the reader interested in learning more about its place in the early modern period, though the editor does take care to include chapters relating to this period as well. Particularly interesting for bridging the gap between the Middle Ages and modernity is Ann W. Astell’s chapter, “The Song of Songs in Aelred of Rievaulx’s Liturgical Preaching,” which analyzes the almost utter disappearance of the Song of Songs from modern Christian lectionaries and preaching, pointing to Aelred of Rievaulx as a model of “preaching ‘from’ the Song,” which can overcome the difficulties attendant on preaching about the Song of Songs in modernity (162). This volume will serve as an excellent resource both to those seeking an introduction to the reception of the Song of Songs and those who are intimately familiar with its reception.