Pierced - Comparing the Mystical Hearts of Mary and Teresa of Avila
In this seminar, Barbara Bradley (University of Edinburgh) will compare the traditions of Mary and Teresa of Avila’s pierced hearts. The tradition of Mary’s pierced heart stems from Simeon’s prophecy in Luke 2:35 in which he tells her, “…and a sword will pierce your own soul, too” anticipating Mary’s sorrow at Jesus’s crucifixion. This verse roots the images of Mary’s immaculate heart and seven sorrows. Centuries later, Teresa of Avila – a sixteenth-century Discalced Carmelite and mystic – recounts a vision in which an angel pierces her heart with God’s love. Drawing on her art history experience, Barbara will compare depictions of Mary and Teresa’s hearts to consider how mystical experiences of God’s sorrow and love differ both theologically and artistically.
To join the audience, please register for the free Zoom link by sending an email to Catherine O’Brien: info@marianstudies.ac.uk.
This is the seventh of a new series of online research seminars organised by the Centre for Marian Studies at St Mary’s University.
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