Geert Groote (also know as Gerard) was born in Deventer, Netherlands in 1340 and died there on August 20, 1384. Geert went for higher studies first to Aachen, then to Paris, where at the Sorbonne he studied medicine, theology, and canon law. Henry Ęger of Calcar, prior of the Chartreuse of Munnikhuizen near Arnheim and John of Ruysbroek influenced Groote toward a more ascetic lifestyle.
He was an author with a broad scope of interest in law, medicine, astrology, even magic. After a serious illness he decided to turn his back on his previous life and founded a religious movement known as the Brethren of the Common Life. This movement spoke out against many forms of corruption in the Church and spread as far as Poland and Switzerland.
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Last updated: 08-22-2005 20:31:54
