Jerome proposes a reading education for the younger Paula
About this date: The date belongs to Letter 107 to Laeta. The letter is advice about a child's upbringing, not a record that every recommendation was carried out.
Jerome advises Laeta on educating her daughter Paula through letters, writing practice, and a sequence of scriptural readings. He values the accuracy of biblical manuscripts above their expensive decoration.
Historical context
The letter assumes a household committed to an ascetic future for the child and able to provide books and instruction. Its practical details show how literacy and religious formation could be connected within such a family.
Key points
- Jerome suggests movable letters so that learning can begin through play and recognition.
- He recommends a reading sequence beginning with the Psalter and continuing through other biblical books.
- Correct text and punctuation matter more to his proposed library than luxurious manuscript materials.
People
- Jerome
- Laeta
- Paula the Younger
Sources and further reading
- Letter 107 to Laeta
Describes learning letters, the proposed biblical reading order, and the preference for accurate manuscripts.