Chapters in this book

1. Frontmatter i
2. Contents v
3. Acknowledgments vii
4. Introduction 1
5. 1. The Path to the Convent 17
6. 2. The Novice Becomes a Nun 48
7. 3. The Spiritual Meanings of Religious Life 81
8. 4. Government, Hierarchies, and Ceremonials 116
9. 5. Daily Life in the Convent 145
10. 6. Body, Soul, and Death 177
11. 7. Sexuality: A Challenge to Chastity 209
12. 8. Indian Brides of Christ 244
13. 9. The Struggle over Vida Comun 275
14. 10. Writing in the Cloisters 310
15. Epilogue 351
16. Appendix: Convents of New Spain: Foundation Date and Religious Affiliation 359
17. Notes 363
18. Bibliography 445
19. Index 485