Margery Kempe, the renowned English mystic and author, had 14 children.
A Life of Faith and Motherhood in Medieval England
Margery Kempe, born in Lynn (now King's Lynn), Norfolk, around 1373, led an extraordinary life that combined profound spiritual experiences with the demanding realities of medieval domesticity. As the author of what is considered the first autobiography in the English language, The Book of Margery Kempe, her writings offer a unique window into her personal spiritual journey, extensive travels, and everyday life, including her role as a wife and a mother to a remarkably large family.
Despite the significant challenges of frequent pregnancies and childbirth in the 15th century, a time marked by high maternal and infant mortality rates, Margery Kempe successfully gave birth to and raised fourteen children. Her memoir often touches upon her domestic life and the struggles she faced, including her fervent desire for a chaste marriage after bearing her many children.
Key Aspects of Margery Kempe's Family Life
Margery Kempe's family life was deeply interwoven with her spiritual development. Here's a brief overview:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | 14 |
| Husband | John Kempe |
| Birthplace | Bishop's Lynn (now King's Lynn), Norfolk, England |
| Period | Late 14th to Mid-15th Century (c. 1373 – after 1438) |
| Notable Work | The Book of Margery Kempe (considered the first English autobiography) |
The Context of Motherhood in Medieval England
Having 14 children was a significant undertaking in medieval times, underscoring the resilience and dedication required of women like Margery Kempe. Motherhood during this era presented numerous obstacles:
- High Mortality Rates: Childbirth was incredibly dangerous for both mother and child, with high risks of infection and complications. Infant and child mortality rates were also exceedingly high due to disease, malnutrition, and lack of advanced medical care.
- Frequent Pregnancies: Women often experienced numerous pregnancies throughout their childbearing years, putting immense strain on their bodies.
- Domestic Responsibilities: Beyond child-rearing, women were typically responsible for managing the household, preparing food, making clothes, and often assisting in family trades or farming.
- Limited Support Systems: While communities often offered informal support, formal medical or childcare services were virtually nonexistent compared to modern standards.
Margery Kempe's Enduring Legacy
Margery Kempe's ability to navigate the rigors of frequent childbirth and child-rearing while simultaneously pursuing an intense spiritual life and ultimately dictating her influential memoir is a testament to her extraordinary character. Her Book provides invaluable insights not only into medieval religious practices but also into the personal experiences of women, mothers, and the challenges they faced in a patriarchal society. Her story remains a compelling example of devotion, resilience, and the enduring power of personal narrative.
For more information on Margery Kempe and her groundbreaking autobiography, you can visit resources like the Encyclopædia Britannica entry on Margery Kempe.
