The Book of Margery Kempe

The Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ, occupied a special place within Christianity since its earliest days. However, by the High or Central Middle Ages (ca. 1100s) her cult increased in popularity, especially in Western Europe, partially because of the monk, Bernard of Clairvaux’s influential writings on the Virgin. More churches were dedicated to her during this period, while new hymns, poems, and visual depictions of the Virgin evidence the rising importance of her cult.

The Book of Margery Kempe provides further evidence of her cult’s significance, particularly for a married woman and mother, like Margery. The Virgin appears as a protective, supportive, benevolent maternal figure who provides guidance to Christians and assistance to her son, Jesus Christ. While she is not divine, Mary is worthy of veneration, and as the holiest of saints, she acts as an influential intercessor between believers and God. Medieval sources, including Margery’s book, often refer to her as “Our Lady.”

The Virgin appears to Margery in visions and speaks to her while she is in contemplation. Margery even acts as her “handmaid” in mystical experiences that place Margery in Biblical scenes. These scenes include the Nativity and the Passion of Christ. Margery identifies with the Virgin’s suffering over her son’s crucifixion throughout the text, both seeking comfort from her and providing comfort to the Virgin.