Herman Hugo(1588–1629)

Flemish Jesuit whose Pia Desideria became one of the most influential emblem books of Counter-Reformation devotion. It pairs images with short texts to guide meditation, drawing the reader into affective prayer and moral transformation.

Read by Alcott (see Alcott's Library)

1 title in the Cabinet

Pia Desideria

Full title: Pia desideria : viz. 1. Gemitus animae poenitentis, 2. Vota [animae] sanctae, 3. Suspiria [animae] amantis

The Dial's edition: London, 1677

A masterpiece of Counter-Reformation emblem literature, pairing allegorical images of the soul's longing with devotional verse and prose to guide readers through stages of purgation, illumination, and union with God.

Full text Excerpt

Listen to an excerpt