Up until the twelfth century, a significant proportion of Western medieval sources originated from monasteries. At the same time, many considered monastic life to be the most perfect form of existence. During this seminar, we will try to understand why such was the case, as well as how the monastic ideal evolved from its origin to the twelfth century. We will explore with a critical eye some of the most important monastic primary sources, especially the intriguing hagiographic sources (Lives of saints) and the so-called "normative" sources (rules and customaries). These sources will be read in English translations but students who can read Latin will be encouraged to access the original texts. Thanks to these sources, we will discuss the daily life, internal structures, and interactions with the lay world of the most significant monastic communities of the Middle Ages. This is an introductory course for graduate students desirous to acquire sound bases in the history of medieval monasticism.