Hrotsvit of Gandersheim, First Female Playwright (ep. 16.c)

Her Half of History · Mar 9, 2026 · 12m

In the 10th century Hrotsvit of Gandersheim was seriously annoyed with the classic Roman playwrights she studied at school. They were all male, and she thought some of their depictions of women were unacceptable. She responded by becoming the first female playwright in the historical record. This is a bonus episode of the type that is usually available only to Patreon subscribers, but it's Women's History Month, and it's free to everyone! Visit the ⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠ (herhalfofhistory.com) for sources, transcripts, and pictures. This show survives on the on the support of listeners like you…