Vincent Houdry (1631-1729) was a preacher, ascetic writer, and member of the Society of Jesus in Paris. These volumes, written between 1696-1702, are the first 8 volumes of a work that comprised 22 volumes, and a 23rd which was a carefully assembled index for the entire work. Considered a homiletic work, La bibliotheque des pr dicateurs, is intended as background material for the composition of sermons. However, it now represents a significant historical work of Catholic theology.