Gone Medieval
Medieval Writers, Extraordinary Women
Oct 29, 2024
In this discussion, Hetta Howes, author of "Poet, Mystic, Widow, Wife," delves into the lives of four remarkable medieval women: Marie de France, Julian of Norwich, Christine de Pizan, and Margery Kempe. They explore the challenges these women faced in expressing their identities and thoughts in a male-dominated society. Howes sheds light on medieval childbirth myths, the truth about women’s travel and social spaces, and the poignant reflections on death found in their writings. Their powerful stories highlight resilience and creativity amid societal constraints.
39:05
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Quick takeaways
- Medieval women like Marie de France and Christine de Pizan significantly contributed to literature, challenging societal norms through their writings.
- The podcast highlights how these women actively navigated public life and personal identity, despite societal constraints and expectations.
Deep dives
The Literary Contributions of Medieval Women
Medieval women made significant contributions to literature, yet their stories often remain eclipsed by their male contemporaries. The podcast highlights noteworthy figures such as Marie de France, who is celebrated for her fables and lays that focus on female experiences, emphasizing women's roles in chivalric narratives. Also discussed is Christine de Pizan, who became one of the first women in Europe to earn a living through writing after becoming a widow, shifting from love poetry to political commentary. These women's outputs reveal not only their literary prowess but also their navigations through patriarchal structures while seeking recognition and success.
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