Abstrakt
This treatise analyzes the influence of Peter Damian on the Church of the 11th century and his efforts to promote hermitage as a higher form of monastic life. It monitors his gradual formation and evolution until his entry into Fonte Avellana.
Based on literature and analysis of published sources, notably Damian's correspondence, his spiritual resources and relationship to the centres of Benedictine monasticism on Monte Cassino and at Cluny are examined. This work also analyzes Damian's provisions for the life of hermits and functioning of monks' communities.