UK Exhibition Reveals 15th-Century Women Who Led Armies

The exhibition at the British Library explores the often overlooked contributions of women in medieval society, specifically between the 12th and 16th centuries. Through a digitization project, curators discovered a wealth of materials highlighting women's agency in various fields, from leading armies to practicing surgery and creating art. This is particularly relevant in the context of gender inequality, as exhibited by the gender pay gap evidenced in rural Essex in the 1480s, where women earned considerably less than men for the same labor. Among the significant exhibits is a letter from Joan of Arc, written in 1429, which marks a poignant connection to a female figure in a period typically dominated by male narratives. Other notable pieces include the only existing copy of The Book of Margery Kempe, the first known autobiography in English, and artifacts linked to notable historical figures such as Margaret of Anjou. Together, these documents provide insight into both the extraordinary and everyday lives of women, challenging the traditional focus on male historical figures. Importantly, the exhibition not only celebrates women’s contributions but also addresses the stark realities faced by others, such as the case of an enslaved woman named Marta. This highlights the complex intersections of agency and oppression in women's lives during the medieval period. Overall, the exhibition underscores the depth and richness of women's historical narratives, calling for a reevaluation of their roles in history. These discoveries advocate for a broader understanding of history that incorporates women's voices, emphasizing their active participation and agency, contrary to prevailing historical perspectives that sideline their contributions.