The Martyrdom of the Three Holy Virgins

Hrosvitha was a tenth-century Canoness with close links to the Ottonian court, and her six plays are a bridge between the classical and medieval worlds. She writes in classical Latin, but her dramaturgy is mediaeval.  She had a ribald sense of humour and a strong feminist agenda.  Our play depicts the martyrdom of three early Christians whose Greek names mean Love, Purity and Peace.  We have been on a journey of discovery into Hrosvitha's unique style that falls midway between poetry and prose.  We have used modern dress to suggest that the impulses driving early martyrs have not vanished in the modern world.  The performers are a mixed group of students and members of the Iffley community.

The play will be performed mostly in Latin, with a few scenes translated.  A reception catered with wine, coffee/tea, nibbles, and drinks will be held in the Haldane Room after the performance (all welcome).