"So You’ve Decided to Become Dead to the World: Becoming an Anchoress"

"So You’ve Decided to Become Dead to the World: Becoming an Anchoress" with Kristina Bauman

Summary:

What if the most radical thing a woman could do in medieval England was to get herself bricked into a tiny room?

In this talk, we explore the fascinating world of anchoresses: women who voluntarily sealed themselves into tiny cells attached to churches, declaring themselves dead to the world. No human touch, no sunlight, no creature comforts. Maybe a cat.

Far from being a story of oppression, this is a story of radical female agency. At a time when women’s lives were defined by marriage, childbirth, and obedience, the anchoritic life offered autonomy, intellectual purpose, and spiritual authority. Anchoresses outnumbered their male counterparts four to one. They were respected members of the local and broader Christian community. One of them, Julian of Norwich, produced the earliest surviving written work by a woman in the English language, produced entirely in her cell.

We’ll examine what daily life looked like inside the anchorhold, the rulebook they lived by, what happened if you changed your mind, and why these women still capture our imagination today.

Prepare to leave with a new perspective on confinement, freedom, and the medieval mind.

Bio:

Kristina Bauman is a writer based in London. She is the creator of @medievalmarginalia, which shares the stranger corners of medieval history. Her hill to die on is correcting people’s misunderstandings of medieval times. Prior to her move to the UK, she was an anthropology teacher in the US. Her fascination with medieval history has been lifelong. She recently finished a historical novel inspired by the medieval women called to extreme expressions of spirituality.

Venue:

Big Penny
1 Priestley Way,
London
E17 6AL

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving early if you plan on eating at the venue!)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. 

Is there food available?

Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. 

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet/baby friendly?

Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.

Is the venue accessible?

All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.