APPROPRIATION OF THE PROPHETIC AS AN ELEMENT OF PROTOFEMINISM IN THE WORKS OF HILDEGARD OF BINGEN

Abstract

The paper analyses the correspondence between two of the most prominent 12th century monastics, Hildegard of Bingen and Bernard of Clairvoix, contrasting stylistic characteristics and devices employed by the two authors. The exchange is situated within the broader context of the period, and interpreted by relying mainly on the theoretical framework of feminist literary criticism. The subject of Hildegard's letter – seeking endorsement for her claim to the prophetic calling - is posited to be a tactic of transcending gender-based limitations imposed by the androcentric feudal order. The paper explains how certain elements of discourse identified in her writings, such as the humility topos, are more than rhetorical devices: they build upon a much older and firmly established biblical understanding of prophethood, where the idea of personal inferiority is taken as a prerequisite for the prophetic role. By rhetorically owning typically medieval notions of the feminine as lesser, weaker and intellectually inferior, Hildegard is claimed to subvert them by skilfully building the platform for her subsequent successful public activity as a renowned prophetess. Although frequently at odds with the established gender roles and expectations, her position remained
autonomous and secure by means of calling on the prophetic authority. The author's conclusion is that Hildegard's carefully devised and consistently executed tactic can be taken as an example of medieval protofeminism.