Three Medieval Witches: A Study of the Female Antagonist

Abstract

In this thesis I have chosen to analyze three female antagonists from medieval literature using the theories of Julia Kristeva and Laura Mulvey. These characters include Grendel's Mother from Beowulf, Morgan le Fay from Arthurian legend, and Mary Magdalene from the Digby Mary Magdalene. By examining each figure under the teachings of both feminist theorists, I have studied the mistreatment of empowered women as it relates to the stereotypes of an antagonist.