Legendary and Semi-Legendary Female Characters in Late Antique Hagiography: Repentant Harlots, Cross-Dressing Ascetics and Holy Fools
Legendary and Semi-Legendary Female Characters in Late Antique Hagiography: Repentant Harlots, Cross-Dressing Ascetics and Holy Fools

Summary/Abstract: This paper examines three extraordinary and bizarre types of female sanctity and ascetical practices, which were closely related to each other. They were favored by the early Byzantine hagiography, despite or maybe because of their legendary or semi-legendary character. The study analyzes symbolic significance and creative usage of biblical motifs in hagiographical discourse. By following biblical and mythological examples, medieval hagiographers created different types of holy women, which became powerful symbols of salvation and transformation for all humankind.

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