Pronunciation: [wˈɪli͡əm ɒv hˈɜːst͡ʃa͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the name "William of Hirschau" can be broken down phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first part, "Wil-li-am," is pronounced /ˈwɪliəm/. The second part, "of," is pronounced /əv/. The final part, "Hir-schau," is pronounced /ˈhɪrʃaʊ/. The "au" at the end is pronounced like "ow" in English. In total, the pronunciation is /ˈwɪliəm əv ˈhɪrʃaʊ/.
William of Hirschau was a medieval German monk and writer who lived in the 12th century. He is known for his notable contributions to monastic literature and his role in the Cistercian Order.
William of Hirschau was born in the town of Hirschau, now located in Germany, during the early 12th century. He entered the Cistercian Order and became a monk at the abbey of Hirsau, where he played an essential role in the development and spread of Cistercian monasticism.
As a writer, William of Hirschau is best known for his work entitled "Speculum Monachorum" or "The Monks' Mirror." This influential text served as a comprehensive guide for monks, covering aspects such as the vows, obedience, humility, and discipline. It aimed to cultivate and maintain spiritual devotion within the monastic community.
In addition to his literary contributions, William of Hirschau was renowned for his dedication to monastic reform. He played an active role in establishing new Cistercian communities across Europe, aiding in their development and strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict. His efforts helped to strengthen the influence and spread of the Cistercian Order during the 12th century.
William of Hirschau's legacy lies in his significant impact on monastic life and literature during the medieval period. His writings continue to inform scholars about the practices and beliefs of the Cistercian Order, making him an important figure in the history of monasticism.
