Doctor Mellifluus Bernardus Claraevallensis

The study deals with the cult of the Cistercian abbot and Doctor of the Church, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, in medieval Bohemia and Moravia from its beginnings in the third quarter of the 12th century to the end of the Middle Ages. Although the philosophy, political commitment and ecclesiastical writings of this most important saint of the Cistercian Order had an impact on the history of Europe in the High Middle Ages, the question of his posthumous cult in the Czech Middle Ages has so far escaped the attention of historians. This study aims to remedy this shortcoming and represents the first attempt to interpret the development, spread and significance of the cult of St. Bernard in Bohemia and Moravia during the High and Late Middle Ages. The article answers basic questions such as when and how the cult of St. Bernard was introduced, to what extent, where and why it spread, what was its main form and its overall significance in medieval Bohemia and Moravia. It also examines the various symbolic roles in which St Bernard appeared as a saint. The comprehensive study of the cult of St. Bernard is based on a detailed analysis of medieval narrative, administrative and material sources, iconography, legends and church dedications.