The Medieval period in Europe was an interesting but bumpy time for women. Women were viewed as the instrument of evil, an attitude encouraged by the church. They were subservient to men and led degraded lives. There existed anti-feminist literature and the fabliaux, which are rhymed verses that spoke of contempt for women and their deceit.
In the early twelfth and thirteenth centuries this attitude began to change. Part was due to the introduction of the chivalric code of honour. The cult of chivalry, or courtly love, existed only among the nobility. The gentlewoman who looked for love or romance outside of marriage found it with the chivalric knight’s attention. Women of nobility enjoyed great attention, were deferred to and paid homage to.
Interesting history. I think the close association of religion and flowers/gardens is a fascinating topic.
Yes I certainly agree Jennifer. They are definitely intertwined. Without the monks and monasteries we would have lost gardens along with the techniques of gardening during the turbulent medieval period. I am working on a post regarding nuns and gardens that you may find interesting too. Keep tuned.
Dear Patty, This is a most interesting posting which I have found fascinating and have enjoyed a great deal. As a frequent visitor to Venice and its churches, I am most intrigued by all the attributes of the Saints and the Virgin Mary in paintings and sculpture which enabled those too poor to travel to recognise those Saints or the story from the Bible to which they referred.
I think that the idea of a modern day 'Mary Garden' would be a wonderful addition to a newly consecrated church or other holy place.
I read your post with great interest. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I do think you should reconsider your statement: "I am not a writer."
🙂
How kind of you to say. Thanks for the visit.
A thoroughly enjoyable post Patty. My minor is in Art History and your images bring back fond memories of combing over art slides!Lovely.
What a wonderful concept!!! I've always thought of the creation of a garden as an act of love towards the person who keeps it alive – God!! Great blog!!! LOVE the theme!!!