Between 1100 and 1400 the number of women saints rose substantially as women began to explore new roles within church and society. Beguines, who were prominent in Northern Europe, dedicated themselves to prayer, some combining prayer with works of charity and nursing and promising chastity. Mechtild of Magdeburg, the only beguine mentioned in this collection, went to Magdeburg to live at the age of 12 and remained there until she retired to the monastery of Helsta in old age. Angela of Foligno was the Southern European equivalent, joining the Franciscan Third Order and choosing a lifestyle she felt suited to her particular calling. During the crusades, women could take charge of their own lives in a variety of ways, opening up horizons of activity and thought unfamiliar to women of earlier times. Obbard introduces the spiritual experiences and theological insights of four medieval women - the above mentioned plus Gertrude the Great, Birgitta of Sweden and Julian of Norwich. Here are their own words, teachings recorded by companions, their own hymns of thanksgiving, about poverty and penance, Angela as mother and teacher, Birgitta the inspired one and pilgrim, the background to Julian's Revelations, and visions of Our Lady. Gertrude was influenced by the new spirit of romanticism introduced by Bernard of Clarvaux; Birgitta, noblewoman and foundress of a new mixed community of men and women; and Julian, the recluse who produced a remarkable work of theology. Highly recommended. 158 page paperback.
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