Verbanaz,
The concept of body purity features prominently in chapter 19 of Bede’s book. Pages 202 and 203 discuss in details Aethelthryth's virginity, therefore clearly showing the importance given to the purity of women during that period. She earned the respect of the Bishops because of her stand and when she later joined the Monastery, she was joining as a strong woman who could act as an example to other women. Elizabeth’s story also discusses the theme of purity in relation to Mary, especially in page 119. The main difference between Bede’s story of Aethelthryth and Elizabeth’s vision of Mary is that while Bede’s story is drawn from real life experience, Elizabeth’s story is a creative extrapolation of the Bible. Therefore, while Bede’s story of Aethelthryth is real, Elizabeth’s story is largely imaginative.
Post 2
Isbell,
You have raised an important point about servanthood and the role of religion in the lives of both women. I agree that the two women portray the real servanthood. However, I am wondering whether the women acted that way because the societal expectations.
Post 3
Peabody,
I fully agree with you that both women chose to live simple lives despite the fact that they were born in royalty. Such acts cannot go unnoticed because they are rare, especially in the society today. I have one question, though: do you think the conduct of these two women had a significant influence on the society?
Post 4
Somers,
There is no doubt that the life that Agnes and Aethelthryth led was influenced by religion. Both women were strong in faith, and that defined the things that they did in life. Would it be fair to say that without religion their stories would be different?
Post 5
Steger,
True to your words, some kings would put these women to death because of the fear that listening to women would render them powerless. Ordinarily, male leaders were expected to show authority and signs of weakness would be ridiculed. That leads me to the question: did King Ecgfrith avoid penetrating Aethelthryth forcefully because a woman’s dignity was respected at that time?
