"So You’ve Decided to Become Dead to the World: Becoming an Anchoress"

"So You’ve Decided to Become Dead to the World: Becoming an Anchoress"
With Kristina Bauman

Summary
What if the most radical thing a woman could do in medieval England was to get herself bricked into a tiny room?

In this talk, we explore the fascinating world of anchoresses: women who voluntarily sealed themselves into tiny cells attached to churches, declaring themselves dead to the world. No human touch, no sunlight, no creature comforts. Maybe a cat.

Far from being a story of grim oppression, this is a story of radical female agency. At a time when women’s lives were defined by marriage, childbirth, and obedience, the anchoritic life offered autonomy, intellectual purpose, and spiritual authority. Anchoresses outnumbered their male counterparts four to one. They were respected members of the local and broader Christian community. One of them, Julian of Norwich, produced the earliest surviving written work by a woman in the English language, produced entirely in her cell.

We’ll look at what daily life looked like inside the anchorhold, the rulebook they lived by, what happened if you changed your mind, and why these women still capture our imagination today.

Prepare to leave with a new perspective on confinement, freedom, and the medieval mind.

Bio
Kristina Bauman is a writer based in London. She is the creator of @medievalmarginalia, which shares the stranger corners of medieval history. Her hill to die on is correcting people’s misunderstandings of medieval times. Prior to her move to the UK, she was an anthropology teacher in the US. Her fascination with medieval history has been lifelong. She recently finished a historical novel inspired by the medieval women called to extreme expressions of spirituality.

Venue:
Central London, TBC 
If the venue does not suit you, you can request a full refund. 



Event Running Time:
(we recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 6pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.