Women Who Went Before
Blemished Brides: Women’s Bodies and Disability in Ancient Judaism
Dec 5, 2024
Dr. Julia Watts-Belser, a Professor of Jewish Studies at Georgetown, delves into the lives of ancient women with disabilities. She discusses cultural norms around beauty in marriage, examining figures like the Etruscan Seianti Hanunia and the Egyptian Tapamet. Watts-Belser reveals the complex views on disability in rabbinic literature, touching on ancient marriage contracts and the rights they provided women. The conversation highlights the societal implications of disability, intimacy, and the evolution of women's rights in ancient Judaism.
58:07
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Quick takeaways
- The experiences of Shianti Hanunia illustrate the importance of societal support in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
- Discussions in the Talmud reveal a gendered double standard in the perception of beauty and disability, affecting marital expectations for women compared to men.
Deep dives
The Life and Limitations of Shianti Hanunia
Shianti Hanunia was an upper-class Etruscan woman who faced significant physical limitations following a severe fall in her youth. Her injuries led to reduced mobility, chronic pain, and dietary restrictions, yet she remained active and well-supported by her family and community throughout her life. This emphasizes that societal integration and support can enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, challenging the contemporary notion that disability is solely a burden. The discussion positions Shianti’s experiences against modern definitions of disability, underscoring that ancient societies had their unique perspectives and categorizations that may differ significantly from today’s understandings.
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