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Ancient HistoryLooking for books on the non-Christian origins of convents
I read once that convents were originally non-religious communities largely funded by wealthy widows and unmarried women with everyone working together for the group's common welfare. They were eventually coopted by the Catholic church either because they were viewed as a threat or because the church wanted control of their assets.
I don't remember where I read this and have yet to find a book on the subject, and I would love to read one (or more). Hoping someone here may have some leads for me. Thanks in advance!