Mary Magdalen: Truth and Myth

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Definitive and delightful study of the literature, art, history, myths and legends surrounding one of Christianity's most significant yet enigmatic figures. A dramatic, thought-provoking portrait of one of the most compelling figures in early Christianity which explores two thousand years of history, art, and literature to provide a close-up look at Mary Magdalen and her significance in religious and cultural thought.

Reviews

A sparky and erudite book, packed with information and written with passion -- Julia O'Faolain * Times Literary Supplement *
A book full of delights, anecdotes, observations; it exhibits a wealth of scholarship, and a passion and charm which are hard to resist -- Jackie Wullschlager * Financial Times *
Haskins' analysis of the Magdalen myth is a rich and scholarly detective story, an unveiling which is at the same time a revelation. This is an intelligent book, which blends a sensitive and critical knowledge of art with theology and history. It is written with style and a delightful mocking wit, and is mercifully free of tediously inconclusive arguments about sex and gender -- Angela Tilby * Church Times *
The strengths of Mary Magdalen are real and obvious. It has a bold sweep. It takes an icon of faith and sexuality and trails it through ideas and hypocrisies, through travesties and beautiful representations on canvas and in bronze -- Eavan Boland * Observer *

Author Bio

Susan Haskins was educated at convents in Singapore and England, and read English and Art History at University College London. She lived for several years in Italy and has worked at Harvard University's Villa I Tatti. She is co-author with Anthony Burton of European Art in the Victoria & Albert Museum (1983), and translator of The Rapid Prince by Paolo Prodi (1987). She lives in London.