The Conversion of the Harlot Thais: an Experiment
When:
—
Venue:
Birkbeck 43 Gordon Square
Take part in a reading of an ancient play by a female playwright - an experiment in how we respond to literature that shocks and offends. This event will use an informal group reading to explore how we can meet this unique example of medieval drama on its own terms, while wrestling with its challenging representation of women, sex, and sex work.
If you're interested in women's history, difficult literature, and/or exploring the possibilities and challenges of historical drama - or just want to see through this window into the distant past - see below for how to get involved as a participant. No acting experience necessary!
'The Conversion of the Harlot Thais' was written in Latin in the tenth century by a nun named Hrotsvit of Gandersheim, drawing on an ancient Christian story of the dramatic conversion of a sex worker. Rediscovered in the sixteenth century, this play and Hrotsvit's other works are well known to scholars, but rarely performed - so much so that in 2006, a theatre-focused spin-off of the feminist art-activist group the Guerilla Girls offered 'The Hrotsvit Challenge', a monetary award to any professional theatre company willing to stage one of her plays.
It's not hard to see why 'Thais' is a difficult sell to modern performers. The story follows the scheme of the monk Paphnutius to confront the notorious 'harlot', her terrified conversion, and her embrace of humiliating penance shut up in a tiny cell - redeemed through three years of suffering, before dying shortly after her release. Hrotsvit doesn't shy away from the intensity of Thais's shame or Paphnutius's desire for control. The result is a striking and challenging exploration of misogyny, existential fear, and ascetic extremes.
The reading will be introduced and guided by Dr Alicia Smith (Birkbeck), and will be followed by a response from Dr Sarah Salih (KCL) and discussion. Please get in touch with alicia.smith@bbk.ac.uk if you would like to read a part.
Please be aware that the play includes :
Verbal abuse / misogynist language
Pejorative descriptions of sex workers
Brief description of disordered eating and self-harm
If you are thinking of participating rather than observing please get in touch if you need more specific information before doing so.
Contact name:
Sue Wiseman
- Dr Alicia Smith