What kind of things did the novice-master teach the novices?
The novice-master provided instruction on the Cistercian life,
guiding them to Church and Chapter, teaching them how to
read, write and chant. He made sure they behaved themselves
and roused them if they were drowsy in church.
The novice-master was in charge of novices, namely, those men who
wished to enter the monastic life but had first to undergo a one-year
trial period to test their suitability and also to learn about Cistercian
life. The novice-master had an important duty instructing these newcomers
and essentially groomed the next generation of monks. He also offered
care and support during difficult emotional periods.
