Vitae Patrum

Vitae Patrum, meaning "Lives of the Fathers" in Latin, is a collection of writings about early Christian monks and ascetics from the 4th and 5th centuries. These biographies focus on their piety, spiritual struggles, and exemplary lives, serving as models for Christian devotion. The most famous work in this genre is "The Lives of the Desert Fathers" by Christian mystic Saint Jerome. Vitae Patrum helped shape Christian monastic ideals and provided insight into early ascetic practices, emphasizing dedication, humility, and spiritual discipline.