Guest Bio
Dr Hetta Howes is a Lecturer in Medieval and Early Modern Literature at City, University of London, and a BBC/AHRC New Generation Thinker. She regularly contributes to broadcasts on BBC Radio 3 and 4, as well as writing for publications such as The Times Literary Supplement and BBC History Extra. She has a BA and MPhil from Cambridge University and a PhD from Queen Mary, University of London.
Dr Howes’ Takaway
https://www.bl.uk/whats-on/medieval-women
Episode Summary
In this episode of Talking Tudors, host Natalie Grueninger welcomes Dr. Hetta Howes, a lecturer in medieval literature, to discuss her latest book, ‘Poet, Mystic, Widow, Wife: The Extraordinary Lives of Medieval Women’. Delve into the captivating stories of four remarkable women – Marie de France, Julian of Norwich, Christine de Pizan, and Margery Kempe, who challenged the societal norms of their time through their writing and actions.
The episode explores the vibrant and often difficult lives of women in the medieval period, highlighting their courage, perseverance, and contributions to literature and history. Dr. Howes shares insights into the challenges of uncovering lost voices and the importance of understanding historical contexts while finding human connections across time. She also demystifies common assumptions about medieval women, revealing their diverse roles and often underestimated influence in a time of restrictive norms.
Join Natalie and Dr. Howes as they bring to light the extraordinary journeys of these medieval women, demonstrating how their stories resonate with timeless themes of ambition, resilience, and the quest for self-expression.
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