Death of Stephen Harding
Stephen Harding, the revered abbot of Cîteaux Abbey and co-founder of the Cistercian Order, lies on his deathbed surrounded by his fellow monks. The monks are administering the last rites, praying for
Setting
The infirmary chamber of Cîteaux Abbey, a simple stone-walled room with a high vaulted ceiling. The space is sparse, reflecting Cistercian austerity, with a single narrow window allowing filtered light. A wooden crucifix hangs on the wall opposite the bed.
Characters
Stephen Harding
primary
A gaunt elderly man in his late 70s with sunken cheeks and a prominent nose. His once-dark hair has gone completely white, thinning at the crown. His hands are veined and tremble slightly, but his pale blue eyes remain remarkably clear despite his weakened state. The lines on his face suggest a lifetime of both austerity and wisdom.
Prior
primary
A middle-aged monk with a gaunt but strong frame, his face bearing the marks of years spent in ascetic devotion. His close-cropped hair is more grey than brown, and his deep-set eyes convey both wisdom and weariness. His hands, clasped in prayer, are calloused from manual labor and parchment work alike.
Infirmarian
secondary
A middle-aged monk of slight build, with sunken cheeks and deep-set eyes that reflect years of both spiritual devotion and medical vigilance. His hands are rough from preparing herbs but move with practiced precision. A faint scent of medicinal oils lingers about him.
Novice
background
A young monk in his late teens or early twenties, with a slender build and pale complexion. His hands are delicate, suggesting he came from a scholarly rather than laboring background before taking vows. His tonsured head reveals a patch of closely cropped brown hair, and his face bears the softness of youth not yet hardened by monastic life.
Dialog
Stephen Harding
My son... the Charter must remain inviolate. Let no... earthly power bend the Rule... as Solomon's temple stood unshaken...
Prior
Fiat voluntas tua, domine. The brothers will keep the purity of our observances as you have taught us.
Infirmarian
The humors are in imbalance now. The pulse weakens like a distant bell.
Stephen Harding
Remember... the psalmist's words... my flesh and my heart fail... but God is the strength...
Prior
Deo gratias for your guidance, Father. The novitiate shall be your living testament.
Infirmarian
Prepare the viaticum. The breath comes... like winter reeds.
Stephen Harding
Into Thy hands...