..." Richard De Bury, Philobiblon, Thomas' ed. 200
Section I
The Benedictine order established monastic study on
a regular plan. Benedict's forty-eighth rule is clear
in its directions. "Idleness is hurtful to the soul.
At certain times, therefore, the brethren must work with
their hands, and at others give themselves up to holy
reading." From Easter to the first of October the monks
were required to work at manual labour from prime until
the fourth hour. From the fourth hour until nearly the
sixth hour they were to read. After their meal at the
sixth hour they were to lie on their beds, and those who
cared to do so might read, but not aloud. After nones
work must be resumed until evening. From October the
first until the beginning of Lent they were to read until
the ninth hour. At the ninth hour they were to take their
meal and then read spiritual works or the Psalms.
Throughout Lent they were required to read until the
third hour, then work until the tenth. Every monk was
to have a book from the library, and to read it through
during Lent. On Sundays reading was their duty throughout
the day, except in the case of those having special
tasks.
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