Consider This from NPR Bonus Episode: "Margery," the medieval memoirist
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Feb 9, 2025 
Sara Zare Hushioriha, a Berlin-based producer, delves into the life of Margery Kempe, a 14th-century mystic whose memoirs were rediscovered in a surprising ping pong match. They discuss how Kempe’s writings reveal a bold, nuanced figure, countering her historical portrayal as submissive. The podcast highlights her candid reflections on motherhood and her pioneering thoughts on vegetarianism, showcasing the importance of women's voices in history that have often been overshadowed.
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Margery Kempe's Two Lives
- Margery Kempe's life story was initially known through a monk's edited version, portraying her as a quiet, devout Christian.
- A later discovery of Kempe's original manuscript revealed a different persona, challenging the monk's portrayal.
Ping Pong Discovery
- In the 1930s, a ping pong match led to the rediscovery of Margery Kempe's original manuscript.
- A player, searching for a new ball, stumbled upon the book in a cupboard.
A Self-Authored Life
- Unlike other medieval women whose lives were documented after performing miracles, Margery Kempe chose to write her own story.
- This makes her book arguably the first autobiography in English written by a woman.
