Nicola Avancini

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Nicola Avancini (1612—6 December 1686), born in Tyrol, was an ascetical writer.

He entered the Society of Jesus in 1677, and for some years held the chair of rhetoric and philosophy at Gratz, and subsequently that of theology at Vienna. He was rector of the Colleges of Passau, Vienna, and Gratz, Provincial of the Austrian Province, Visitor of Bohemia, and at his death Assistant for the German Provinces of the Society.

In the midst of these duties he published works on philosophy, theology, and sacred literature. His Meditations on the Life and Doctrines of Jesus Christ has maintained some popularity. This work, originality in Latin, was translated into the principal European languages and went through many editions. The English version in use contains much additional matter drawn from the works of other authors. But these meditations, in their simple as well as their extended form, have assisted in the task of daily meditation.

Avancini was also the author of sermons and a large number of dramas, suitable for presentation by college students.