This seminal encyclopedia with 350 entries and 50 illustrations is an indispensable guide to the life and thought of one of the spiritual giants of the 20th century. The authoritative essays, written by top Merton scholars, are arranged alphabetically and cover the following *Merton's writings *Essential themes that emerge from his books *Persons who were important in his life *The places where he lived out his life. Merton aficionados will treasure this invaluable reference work, and those new to Merton will go to their libraries to seek out its wealth of information and insight.