Hildegard was a remarkably progressive woman for someone born in the late 11th century. She petitioned the church and fought against its ridiculous laws, wrote on theology, and was heavily devoted to the practicality and benefit of music. Honestly, I think she would be vehemently despised in this current day and age if she spoke against the church like she did. She was bold and held to her beliefs in a remarkably admirable way. I am truly saddened that this is the first time I have learned about her in my education. I have spent countless hours learning about men who spoke against the church, like Martin Luther, but never about Hildegard. (Granted she didn't start a new church but she still was incredibly progressive and should have been recognized.) I love how she stood her ground and fought for what she believed in. She did what I would wager almost no one did at that point, and she argued so well, that she swayed the church into relenting and allowing her convent to re-participate in music once again. She was revolutionary and I am astounded. I will promptly be doing more research on her and I may have a new role model!
Aristotle says that the man who does not get angry at the things he should be angry at "is thought unlikely to defend himself; and to endure being insulted and put up with insult to one's friends is slavish" (Aristotle 41). While he states that passivity is preferred to excessive anger, he still gives great criticism to it. In contrast to Aristotle, the man who Christians believe to be the most just is Jesus who states in Matthew 5:39-40, "...do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well." Essentially, arguing that one is not to respond in anger when insulted or hurt, to not defend one's self. Most individual's are unable to achieve this. Our natural instinct is to defend ourselves, especially in physical cases. However, Christians strive to be like Jesus in this way. I would also argue that it is a very admirable wa...
Hildegard is one of my favorite women from history! I'm glad someone else sees what a boss she is. Unfortunately, our history records are very much upper-class, male based. You have to be literate to leave something for future generations. That's why Hildegard's music and story are so important! We get a glimpse into the female perspective of the past!
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