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A review by plantbasedbride
Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross
5.0
“I want readers - particularly women - to understand one basic truth: to empower yourself in this world you must learn.”
I first read this novel over 15 years ago, and it has stayed on my mind, even as the details faded into obscurity. A kernel remained, a feeling of awe and respect for a historical figure all but wiped out of history due to the misogyny of the Catholic Church.
Joan hid her true identity, as many women have throughout the centuries, in order to obtain for herself the education she felt compelled to earn. To claim a degree of freedom and respect that would have never been afforded to a woman in her time, even a woman as intelligent and learned as she.
What moves me most, upon completing this novel for a second time (now as an adult with more knowledge of the world), is how little perspectives have changed in a thousand years.
Even still, today, in the 21st century, women are seen as less than. Second class citizens. Property. Whether in true practice or in attitude.
I am once again inspired by this tale of a strong, intelligent, kind, and progressive figure committing her entire life to the service of others. Even to those who would turn on her in an instant if they were to know the truth.
This novel is difficult to read. To be faced with the truth of what women have suffered for so long is incredibly unpleasant. But it is also incredibly empowering.
“Joan represents the empowerment of women, the realization of their full potential, by using all their talents-especially the mind.”
I am glad I read this novel as an impressionable girl, trying to navigate my place in the world, and I am glad to read it again as a woman, resolute in my knowledge that my gender does not predetermine my path in life nor ability.
I highly recommend this novel.
Trigger Warning for graphic violence, rape, and domestic abuse.
I first read this novel over 15 years ago, and it has stayed on my mind, even as the details faded into obscurity. A kernel remained, a feeling of awe and respect for a historical figure all but wiped out of history due to the misogyny of the Catholic Church.
Joan hid her true identity, as many women have throughout the centuries, in order to obtain for herself the education she felt compelled to earn. To claim a degree of freedom and respect that would have never been afforded to a woman in her time, even a woman as intelligent and learned as she.
What moves me most, upon completing this novel for a second time (now as an adult with more knowledge of the world), is how little perspectives have changed in a thousand years.
Even still, today, in the 21st century, women are seen as less than. Second class citizens. Property. Whether in true practice or in attitude.
I am once again inspired by this tale of a strong, intelligent, kind, and progressive figure committing her entire life to the service of others. Even to those who would turn on her in an instant if they were to know the truth.
This novel is difficult to read. To be faced with the truth of what women have suffered for so long is incredibly unpleasant. But it is also incredibly empowering.
“Joan represents the empowerment of women, the realization of their full potential, by using all their talents-especially the mind.”
I am glad I read this novel as an impressionable girl, trying to navigate my place in the world, and I am glad to read it again as a woman, resolute in my knowledge that my gender does not predetermine my path in life nor ability.
I highly recommend this novel.
Trigger Warning for graphic violence, rape, and domestic abuse.