Vision Two of Hildegard of Bingen's Book of Divine Works : A Medieval Map for a Cosmic Journey

This article focuses on Vision Two of Hildegard of Bingen's Book of Divine Works [LDO]. The main argument is that this vision, understood within the context of the book as a whole, presents a dynamic, allegorical cosmic map which provides guidance for a spiritual journey through life in this world to union with God. A close analysis of the various symbols in the map, their probable sources, and the frameworks that connect them opens up a basic understanding of what this vision is expressing. A parallel insight into the nature of this vision sees it as part of a theological response to the early reformers who would come to be called the Cathars. After considering the nature of Hildegard's work as art and theology, I place Vision Two of LDO in the historical context of the rise of the Cathar movement and argue for an interpretation of the overall vision, as well as many of its specific symbols, as offering a Catholic alternative to the Cathar view of the cosmos.