Women's History Commons^™

Searching For Medieval Lesbianism And "Lesbianistic Intimacy" Within Asexual Christian Religious Orders Of The Middle Ages: G. Unice Sue Rose And C. Super Mel Et Favum Dulciori, Isabelle Paylor

Young Historians Conference

From an era characterized by piety and a fierce hostility towards sexuality, the field of medieval lesbianism asserts that evidence of medieval 'lesbians' exist within women’s music, art, texts, and literature despite the phallocentric and theological refutations of medieval theologians and historians. Yet, even within the highly controversial and complex field, clerical lesbianism is "twice marginalized" and egregiously simplified. Where does evidence of medieval women-identified relationships within religious orders exist, what constitutes this religious lesbianism, and how should scholarship discuss medieval lesbianism? This paper answers these questions first analyzing the anonymous, 12th century love-letters G. unice sue rose and C. …

Racial Issues/Tension In The Albina District (Portland, Oregon) Mid - Late 20th Century, Karthik Sreedhar

Young Historians Conference

The paper talks about discrimination of African Americans in the Albina District of northeastern Portland, Oregon. The paper examines the effect of housing discrimination of the early twentieth century had on the mid twentieth century and how systematic oppression was enabled because of the concentration of African Americans in one area. The thesis is that the housing discrimination of the twentieth century that caused the concentration of African Americans in the Albina District was the cause of limited opportunities, lacking infrastructure, and reduced rights of African Americans that became ingrained into the Portland culture.

British Family Structure: Expressions Of Power And Conceptions Of Family, Chloe Chaplin, Kathy Callahan Dr.

Posters-at-the-Capitol

The goal of this research is to examine family structure in early modern Scotland and England though the use of written communication. The primary focus will be on aristocratic families with a secondary look at upper-middle class families. This is due primarily to availability of records, and also why I will mainly be using written correspondence rather than secondary analyses, as this field is still relatively new. By exploring the development of key familial relationships (e.g. parent-child, husband-wife, and in-law interactions) through private correspondence, larger insights can be drawn about gender and the nuclear family. Also, these central relationships guide …

The Truth And Tale Of Lady Jane Grey: An Honest Demeanor In The Midst Of Ruthless Ambition, Sarah Kim

Young Historians Conference

In the midst of the political bloodbath of Tudor England, one individual remains steadfast. Known as the “Nine-Days Queen,” Lady Jane Grey is infamous for her short nine-day reign before she was promptly executed by Queen Mary. Because of Grey’s stance in her unfortunate circumstances as the object of the royal family’s political ambitions, Grey remains a distinguished figure in English history despite her minimal role and influence.

Women Of The West: Prostitutes And Madams, Emma R. Marek

Young Historians Conference

During the late 1800s, the institution of prostitution flourished unlike ever before as America fulfilled its “Manifest Destiny.” Amidst predominantly male industries, women found prostitution a unique opportunity to survive in the developing and wild western society. The topic of this paper addresses these women, this under celebrated group, and their contribution to the development of the American West. This paper will argue that during the 19^th century, prostitutes and madams contributed immensely to the economic, social, and legal developments of the Western Frontier. Brothels became integral for the economic discourse of businessmen. Their dually criminal and civil position …

Feminism During The Russian Revolution: A Failure On Multiple Fronts, Helen R. Rossmiller

Young Historians Conference

Although not always acknowledged for their contributions, women were not only a significant force in the Russian Revolution, they were the impetus behind it. Following the revolution however, feminist ideals were neglected by the new Soviet government and whatever feminist policies or ideals existed were reduced to mere illusion. Female liberation was a central goal for most female revolutionaries; yet, they were unable to accomplish it in a lasting and universal way. Nevertheless, an understanding of the Russian revolution without an acknowledgment of the influence of both aristocratic and working-class women who joined the Revolution would be incomplete. Women such …

Marie De France's Courtly Love: The Liberation Of Women Through Romance, Tiffany K. Ong

Young Historians Conference

In the era of ladies and lords, French troubadours sang the tales of the late twelfth-century medieval court. One such poet, Marie de France, documented her stories in her work, Lais, a collection of adulterous romantic feats and failures of chivalrous knights. Within her writing, she incorporated aspects of the knight’s code of honor into the personalities of her characters. While the knightly code of honor is often perceived as an example of the restrictions placed on medieval women, Marie de France’s writing gives an example of women reconstructing their position in medieval life. This paper explores the tales of …

The Veiled Exploitation Of The Vestal Virgins, Lara Mclain

Young Historians Conference

This paper discusses the political dynamics of the Roman religious systems, specifically the Vestal Virgins. This work seeks to refute the commonly accepted understanding of the Vestal Virgins as an empowering, religious cult and build an understanding of the cult of Vesta as a political tool that was used by the Roman state to maintain power and traditional values. The location of the Temple of Vesta in the Forum, the political epicenter of the Roman Empire, serves as the foundation for this paper’s assertion that the Vestals were an essentially political tool. Livy’s description of Hannibal’s advance towards Rome and …

No Such Thing As A Slave Narrative: Abba, Coobah, And Sally, Shelby K. Miller

Student Scholar Showcase

Within history, there is a push to combine and generalize individual experiences into a single narrative. However, individual slaves lived massively different lives even when they lived on the same planation. My presentation will focus on three specific slaves from Thomas Thistlewood’s sugar cane plantation in Jamaica. These three women lived in the same place, experienced the same brutality, and yet all responded differently to their trauma. I will agree that historians cannot create a comprehensive slave narrative because of these varying and greatly contrasting lives.

Family Structure In Early Modern Scotland, Chloe Chaplin

Posters-at-the-Capitol

This research project will explore interpersonal relationships in early modern Scotland. The early modern period is commonly defined at 1500-1750. Under Dr. Callahan's guidance, we looked at archival evidence from the early modern period in the National Records of Scotland which primarily consisted of personal correspondence. Since this project will focus on the upper classes and the depictions of family structures in personal correspondence, these letters between family members provide critical evidence to draw conclusions about family life in early modern Europe. By studying personal correspondence conclusions can be drawn regarding family structure along the lines of economic activity, domestic …

Naming Rape: The Social Practice Of Power, Agency, And Victimization In The Italo-Ethiopian War, 1936-1940, Caroline Waldron Merithew

Biennial Conference: The Social Practice of Human Rights

This paper, “Naming Rape,” shows how and when rape got named as part of the movement against the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1936. I show that activists used the term strategically at certain points and specific places of the struggle to sway opinion and move the international community to challenge fascist violence and expansionism. Naming rape was something new for antiwar activists at this time.

"Ever True And Loyal:" Mary Todd Lincoln As A Kentuckian, Andrew Landreth

Scholars Week

This paper considers Mary Todd Lincoln from the perspective of her relationship with her home state of Kentucky. Utilizing her own writings and those of her contemporaries, as well as secondary studies, this paper argues that Mary Todd Lincoln's life and relationships embodied many of the same contradictions of her home state and that important aspects of her public and private life were influenced by her upbringing in antebellum Kentucky. Particular emphasis is placed on her views of slavery and on her relationship with the Todd family during the Civil War.

Working-Class Black Women’S Role In Building And Sustaining Black Communities In The Pacific Northwest, Tessara G. Dudley

Student Research Symposium

In response to the scholarly focus on the historical racism of the Pacific Northwest, this research attempts to answer the question of how Black communities have persisted in the face of discrimination. This study is a historical examination of the roles that Black women have played in building and sustaining Black communities within predominantly white regions, with a specific focus on the Portland-Vancouver area during and after World War II. This work focuses on the activities of working class Black women, a significant proportion of Black women migrating to the Pacific Northwest during World War II, examining their community-building activities …

Bomb-Dropping Bombshells: An Analysis Of The Motivations And Accomplishments Of The All-Female 46th Taman Guards Bomber Aviation Regiment, Yasmine L. Vaughan

MAD-RUSH Undergraduate Research Conference

The 46^th Taman Guard Bombers Aviation Regiment was an all-female regiment of bomber pilots enlisted by the Soviet military during World War II. Nicknamed the Night Witches by Germans soldiers, they flew over 24,000 combat missions in three years and produced twenty-four Heroes of the Soviet Union. Although gender equality in Soviet Russia made this regiment possible, equality was not what made them successful. To understand their achievements, their motivations must be examined. When the Germans invaded, these women were driven by patriotism to join the fight. Enduring the harsh frontlines, this regiment owed their success to their …

"Would To God Each Town Had Also A Girls' School" : New Views Of Women's Education From Luther And Vives, Malia R. Marshall

Young Historians Conference

In the early 1500s, Europe went through a time of rapidly changing ideas as a result of the rise of the humanist movement and Protestant Reformation. What did leading humanists and reformers believe about women's education? More importantly, how did their writings change the way Europeans viewed women's education? By examining the writings of humanist Juan Luis Vives and reformer Martin Luther, this paper argues that while both men countered misogynistic ideas of the day in support of women's education, Luther separated himself from humanist educators by suggesting that both women and men needed to be educated for their salvation, …

Breaking The Mold: Joan Of Arc's Unyielding Individuality, Sierra Ha

Young Historians Conference

During the Hundred Years’ War, Joan of Arc became known for her unusual dress, piety, and leadership. While these aspects of Joan’s personality have been studied independently by historians, through a comprehensive study of these characteristics, it becomes clear that Joan stood out from her peers because of the strict obstinacy with which she maintained her unique lifestyle. Her mannerisms caught the attention of her English rivals and even the French, whom she fought to protect. Because of the individualistic ways in which she dressed, exercised her faith, and guided others that broke social expectations and the unyielding persistence with …

Confucianism: How Analects Promoted Patriarchy And Influenced The Subordination Of Women In East Asia, Lauren J. Littlejohn

Young Historians Conference

Analects, compiled by Confucius’ disciples, helps historians understand the origin of Chinese philosophy and women’s role in society. Analects created a separation of gender that assigned women the domestic role and granted men the authority to handle public affairs. Furthermore, Analects influenced the work of other philosophers who published similarly patriarchal works. Additionally, the subordination of women in Analects, resulted in the practice of female-infanticide, concubinage, and ghost marriages. Analects and the application of Confucianism offers historians an opportunity to study how women in East Asia were treated in the past and helps explain why women continue to …

Coping Mechanisms Used By Female Slaves In Charleston During The Antebellum Era, Jennifer Seay

Student Scholar Showcase

Coping Mechanisms Used by Slaves in Charleston, South Carolina

In Charleston, South Carolina during the Antebellum Era slaves used coping mechanisms to survive the oppression and dehumanization of slavery. Slave implemented coping mechanisms such as religion and music into their daily lives which provided them with a source of hope and solace. Former slaves have stated in personal interviews and writings that reflecting on something other than their reality of bondage inspired them and created hope for a new future. The enslaved found hope through religion and accepted the biblical stories of Christianity as prophecy of the future. Music relayed …

Women In The Late Nineteenth Century: Involvement In The 1893 Chicago World’S Fair, Maria Miller

Undergraduate Research and Scholarship Symposium

The Columbian Exposition of 1893, also known as the Chicago World’s Fair, was a clear example of the women’s rights movement in nineteenth century America. It exemplified the inclusion of women in male-dominated fields by establishing a Board of Lady Managers. This group of women held executive authorities over the establishment of a Woman’s Building. The Woman’s Building was a space dedicated to displaying the achievements of women throughout the world. This Building also gave female visitors hope for a future of expanded rights. Despite this, the Woman’s Building isolated women’s work into a distinct section within the Exposition. The …

P28. Canadian Jewish Women And Girls On The Homefront, 1939-1945, Jennifer Shaw

Western Research Forum

Background: The following presentation explores the roles and experiences of Canadian Jewish women on the Canadian homefront during World War Two. Despite knowing much about the lives of women in this time period in general, we do not know much about the experiences of particular groups, and how they differed from the majority of women.

Methods: Using first-hand accounts gathered from Canadian Jewish women, as well as archival materials, this presentation explores the different ways Jewish women and girls participated in the war effort and experienced the war years.

Results: While acknowledging that some of their experiences …

Research And Study Of Fashion And Costume History Spanning From Ancient Egypt To Modern Day, Kaitlyn E. Dennis Miss

Posters-at-the-Capitol

Through a generous donation to Morehead State University, research has been conducted on thousands of slides containing images of artwork and artifacts of historical significance. These images span from Egyptian hieroglyphs to the inaugural dress of every first lady of the United States. The slides are in the process of being recorded and catalogued for future use by students in hopes of furthering academic comprehension and awareness of the influence of fashion and costume history through the ages. Special thanks to the family of Gretel Geist Rutledge, faculty mentor Denise Watkins, as well as the Department of Music, Theatre, and …

Witchcraft In Scotland In Early Modern Europe, Chloe Chaplin

Posters-at-the-Capitol

Chloe Chaplin

Dr. Kathy Callahan, Faculty Mentor

Dept. of History

Witchcraft in Scotland

This research project centered around witchcraft in Scotland and England in Early Modern Europe (roughly late 15^th century to mid 18^th century). The witch hunts characterized Europe during this time; our research initially looked at how England and Scotland compared to the European continent in the frequency of witch hunts, victimhood, and the specific details of the hunt. Scotland and England differed in that Scotland resembled the witch hunts of the continent whereas England was less prone to witch hunts. England suffered less witch hunts …

Empress Matilda: Always The Consort, Never The Queen, Sadie M. Kok-Carlson

Young Historians Conference

In 12^th century Europe, a world built and run primarily by men, a woman's success was defined through the men around her. This social concept applied especially to Empress Matilda, whose opportunity to claim her right to the throne of England was squandered by her husband, her rival, and her contemporaries. This paper examines the series of events leading up to the subsequent anarchistic civil war, argues that the decisions made by opposing parties were driven by sexist attitudes of the era, and affirms the importance of recognizing and remembering the Queen of England that never was.

Edith Wilson And The Treaty Of Versailles, Ceili Janae Charley

Young Historians Conference

Edith boiling Wilson used her position as First Lady to assume presidential powers, including making executive decisions. She was the single most important non-elected presidential advisor of all time. This paper describes Edith’s growing political involvement, the decisions she made after Woodrow Wilson’s stroke in October, 1919, and the impact of her decisions on the defeat of the Treaty of Versailles.

Breaking Boundaries: The Worth Of Women In The Merovingian Period, Rachel R. Mckinnon

Young Historians Conference

In a world run by men, the question of a woman’s role in society is always relevant. Were women allowed basic rights? Were they generally respected and considered essential to society? Was there a difference in treatment based on class? The upper-class women of the Merovingians, a dynasty lasting from 457-751 CE, were viewed merely with the degrading expectations that the patriarchy allowed them. They were extremely limited and generally not respected. However, Queen Radegund’s life and accomplishments suggest that upper-class women still yearned for a more meaningful life. Radegund demonstrates the desire women had to prove their worth, and …

The Role And Influence Of Anne Boleyn, Cynthia L. Abrams

Young Historians Conference

While Anne Boleyn's reputation is one that is often associated with Elizabeth I and her scandalous relationship with King Henry VIII, following her death she began to be identified as a Protestant reformer and proto-feminist. Drawing on primary sources including Anne Boleyn's correspondence with King Henry VIII and Cardinal Wolsey, as well as her portrayal in John Foxe's Book of Martyrs, this paper examines her defiance of 16th century social norms, specifically refusing to remain a mistress, favor of biblical translations, and manipulation of Henry VIII.

The Link Between Artemisia Gentileschi’S Biography And Her Artistic Oeuvre, Emma Komers

Young Historians Conference

Up until the era of Modern Art, the artistic community excluded women and dismissed their work as inferior. One exception to this trend is the 17th-century Italian artist, Artemisia Gentileschi, whose work demonstrated her ability to use scenes depicting familiar stories as a way to express her personal struggles as a woman. Drawing upon historical interpretations of her art, popular stories at the time, and the artwork itself, this paper demonstrates the use of art as a tool to communicate social injustice.

Artists' Books And The Medical Humanities Workshop

Maine Women Writers Collection Conferences

Program for the 2016 workshop Artists' Books and the Medical Humanities in Canterbury, England.

Artists' Books And The Medical Humanities

Maine Women Writers Collection Conferences

Program for the 2016 interdisciplinary symposium Artists' Books and the Medical Humanities in Canterbury, England.

Daughters Of The Sun: "The Birth" (An Excerpt), Megan Lynn

Scholarly and Creative Works Conference (2015 - 2021)

“You have never heard of me before. You have never heard of me, but my name has come out of your mouth thousands of times.”

So begins my novel, Daughters of the Sun, the story of Jesus’s twin sister, Alleluia. Using the narrative framework seen in Salman Rushdie’s Midnight’s Children, Alleluia tells her story over one night—Saturday into Sunday morning—in an appropriated apartment facing a church. She weaves into her story another tale of women who have lived in shadows cast by the men around them, women whom history chose to vilify—Lilith, Adam’s first wife who was written out of …