The Book of Margery Kempe

Definition

The Book of Margery Kempe is considered one of the first autobiographies in the English language, written in the early 15th century by Margery Kempe, a mystic and laywoman from King's Lynn. This work offers a unique insight into the spiritual experiences and inner life of a medieval woman, while reflecting major literary trends such as mysticism, spiritual autobiography, and vernacular literature during the Middle English period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Margery Kempe's book is notable for its detailed accounts of her spiritual journey, including visions of Christ and her emotional struggles, making it an essential text for understanding medieval mysticism.
2. The work showcases the role of women in religion during the Middle Ages and highlights the challenges they faced in asserting their spiritual authority.
3. Kempe's writing style combines elements of prose and dialogue, allowing her to express her thoughts and emotions vividly, which was innovative for its time.
4. The Book of Margery Kempe has been influential in feminist literary studies as it provides a rare perspective on a woman's voice in a predominantly male literary tradition.
5. Kempe traveled extensively throughout Europe on pilgrimages, and her experiences reflect the cultural and religious dynamics of 15th-century Europe.

Review Questions

• How does The Book of Margery Kempe exemplify major literary trends and genres present in Middle English literature?
  • The Book of Margery Kempe exemplifies several literary trends in Middle English literature, particularly through its use of mysticism and autobiography. It reflects the growing interest in personal spirituality and individual experiences during this time. By being written in vernacular English, Kempe also represents a shift towards making literature accessible to a wider audience, which was becoming increasingly important in the literary landscape of the Middle Ages.
• Discuss how Margery Kempe's life experiences influenced her writing and contributed to the historical context of her work.
  • Margery Kempe's life experiences, including her struggles with mental health, motherhood, and intense spiritual visions, significantly influenced her writing. Living in a time when women's voices were often marginalized, her ability to articulate her spiritual journey and challenges provides insight into the societal norms of her era. Her pilgrimages across Europe highlight not only her personal faith but also illustrate the broader religious landscape and the role women could play within it during the late medieval period.
• Evaluate the impact of The Book of Margery Kempe on women's writing and mysticism during the Middle Ages, considering its legacy in contemporary literature.
  • The Book of Margery Kempe had a profound impact on both women's writing and mysticism by providing a unique female perspective in a male-dominated literary tradition. It challenged societal norms by showcasing women's spiritual authority and experiences. Its legacy continues today as it serves as a foundational text for feminist literary criticism and studies in spirituality, demonstrating how women navigated their faith and sought agency within religious frameworks. This work remains significant in understanding medieval culture and its influence on contemporary discussions about women's voices in literature.

Related terms

Mysticism: A spiritual practice focused on achieving direct experience or union with the divine, often characterized by profound personal experiences and visions.

Vernacular Literature: Literature written in the everyday language spoken by the people, as opposed to Latin or French, making it more accessible to a broader audience.

Autobiography: A self-written account of one's own life, providing personal insights and reflections, which was a developing genre during the Middle English period.