In Honour of Women
“We cannot live in a world that is interpreted for us by others. An interpreted world is not a hope. Part of the terror is to take back our own listening. To use our own voice. To see our own light.”
― Hildegard von Bingen
Dear readers,
We’d like to dedicate this issue to women in recognition of International Women's Day on March 8th. It has become more important than ever to celebrate, and shine a light on, the contributions and achievements of women. Your editors, two women, feel deeply indebted to those who bravely paved the way before us.
What challenges did medieval and early modern women face and how did they surmount them? We hope to offer you a glimpse into their lives and legacies.
In this issue, we focus on medieval and early modern women. Jessica Brewer talks about the early medieval Anglo-Saxon queen Etheldreda, and Conor Byrne examines the late medieval queens Philippa of Hainault and Anne of Bohemia. We review Susan Signe Morrison's wonderful introductory book on medieval women, and examine the power of Tudor queenship in Roland Hui's The Turbulent Crown. In our features, we focus on women’s impact on medieval architecture and objects including a look at lady chapels and spindle whorls.
We've also kept our finger on the pulse of news in medieval studies and included the line-up for an upcoming conference on Medieval Ethiopia, reviewed a new exhibit at the Museum of London, visited the Uffizi, and planned a few fantasy vacations.
Lastly, don't hesitate to give us a shout on Twitter @Medievalists with the hashtag: #MedievalWomen. Let's keep the conversation going.
Warmly,
Sandra & Dani