Speaking, Writing and Performing Mary Magdalene in Irish Convents in Early Modern Spain (1499 to 1639)

Abstract

This article charts how the figure of Mary Magdalene emerged as a central figure within the creative culture, oral and written, of Irish convents in Spain between 1499 and 1639, during the period when Irish female religious settled in Spain and founded their convents. The majority of Irish convents in Spain were Dominican, an order dedicated to an outgoing educational mission. Detailing her centrality to the lives of Irish female religious communities generally, the article explores how Mary Magdalene was used in teaching and entertainment to endorse and commemorate the sacred history and doctrines of the Church and particularly to authorize women’s leadership. Although they were primarily pedagogical in purpose, this study suggests that performances relating to Mary Magdalene in this period specifically celebrate her centrality within the Resurrection narrative and showcase a love, loyalty and faith that surpassed that of the male disciples.