Date of Award:
5-2014
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Arts (MA)
Department:
English
Committee Chair(s)
Christine Cooper-Rompato
Committee
Christine Cooper-Rompato
Committee
Lisa Gabbert
Committee
Joyce Kinkead
Abstract
This study focuses on the characterization of Cushman’s healers in her three medieval novels The Midwife’s Apprentice; Catherine, Called Birdy; and Matilda Bone. I specifically look at the physical descriptions, medical practices, and the healer’s role within the community as an accepted medical authority. Cushman’s portrayals illuminate the different locations and situations in which women practiced medicine during the Middle Ages, thus she presents more historically accurate portrayals of female healers.
The significance of this project is that Cushman challenges the stereotype of the isolated and disfigured old crone that has been, perhaps inadvertently, perpetuated by authors and focuses on the historical accuracies of female healers. Many young readers learn about history through novels and it is important that authors present accurate historical representations of the past they are trying to describe to their audiences. In addition, this project will bring multiple disciplines together such as medieval studies, young adult literature, medical history, and folklore in order to illuminate the historical accuracies and representations of female healers.
Checksum
5997772f20f10b7a3c7dc453885c9d3e
Recommended Citation
Turnbow, Angela C., "Midwife, Young Maiden, and Physician: Image and Authority in Karen Cushman's Female Healers" (2014). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 3302.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/3302
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