The Latin Hymn-writers and Their Hymns
"The Latin Hymn-writers and Their Hymns" by Samuel Willoughby Duffield is a scholarly examination of Latin hymnody, written in the late 19th century. The work seeks to uncover the history, authorship, and significance of Latin hymns and their creators, progressing through key figures and themes in early Christian worship. The collection contains detailed studies of the contributions of notable hymn writers, as well as the development of hymn genre itself over centuries. The opening of the text introduces readers to the author's deep appreciation for both the history of Latin hymns and the poets who created them, beginning with an exploration of early Christian worship practices. It highlights the church's transition from Hebrew and Greek psalmody to Latin hymns, and discusses figures like Hilary of Poitiers, who is credited with significantly contributing to this evolution. The beginning emphasizes the significance of these hymns in Christian liturgical life, setting the groundwork for the detailed discussions and analyses that follow throughout the book.