Medieval Art and feminism

In the Middle Ages, both feminism and art were present. A woman's impact on evil deeds led to her being perceived as dangerous and evil. Henry Kraus claims that questionable images convey the bad essence. Henry Kraus observed that the image portrays something less alluring and ugly. "The devil may frequently dress as a woman." Camille, p. 70. She also displays interest in and affection for the serpent, which suggests a relationship with evil.
Historical postures imply an eternity of torment in hell. Additionally, the disgusting postures suggest a connection to serpents. The perpetrator of sin caused a man’s fall. (Camille 80). For instance, Potiphar’s wife is shown listening to evil’s counsel. The also seen to extend the intimacy and proved to be a member of the devil’s team.



Figure 2: Camille, Michael. Potiphar’s wife listening to the devil. Reaktion Books, pp. 81.

The story about the forbidden fruit is seen differently by the church. The origin of sin is traced to the point where the first humans ate the forbidden fruit. A man was influenced to sin by his partner. Figure 3 below shows image of the original sin.



Figure 3: Camille, Michael. The original sin. Reaktion Books, pp. 91.

The church responds by significantly contributing to uphold the dignity of marriage and that of a woman as well as to correct her contribution to the society. The church also upheld the right to ownership of property as opposed to the medieval times. A Christian teaching places her at the center of the society. Although she was considered as morally inferior and excluded from the priesthood, the early church has the most devotion to the Virgin. The glorification of the Virgin Mary was used to show a person without sin. The Church praises Mary enthusiastically and brands her as fresh. The glorification of Mary was intended to differentiate her from the ordinary person. The church upholds purity.



Works Cited

Camille, Michael. Image on the edge: the margins of medieval art. Reaktion Books, 2015, 79-100.