Margery Kempe's Pilgrimage to Jerusalem in Late Medieval England. Analysis of Cultural, Religious, and Socio-Political Dynamics of Pilgrimage to Jerusalem in Late Medieval England

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Research Paper (postgraduate) from the year 2024 in the subject Literature - Medieval Literature, grade: 1,0, University of Bonn (Department of English, American and Celtic Studies), course: Women¿s Writing in Medieval England, language: English, abstract: This research paper examines the pilgrimage to Jerusalem as depicted in The Book of Margery Kempe, situating the narrative within the cultural, religious, and socio-political context of fifteenth century England. It explores how Kempe¿s journey reflects broader societal dynamics, including religious devotion, gender expectations, and the social challenges of pilgrimage. By analyzing her personal experiences and encounters along the route, the study highlights the transformative impact of pilgrimage on Kempe¿s identity and social standing. Particular attention is given to the tensions between personal piety and communal norms, and the role of spiritual travel in negotiating female agency during the late medieval period. Ultimately, the paper argues that Kempe¿s account offers valuable insight into how pilgrimage functioned not only as a religious act but also as a means of self-definition and social positioning. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of medieval pilgrimage as a personal and culturally embedded experience.

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