In the medieval port town of King’s Lynn, Norfolk, a remarkable woman emerged whose voice would echo through centuries of spiritual and literary history. Margery Kempe, born around 1373, defied the expectations of her time. A mother of fourteen children, she later transformed into a mystic, pilgrim, and author of what is often considered the first autobiography in the English language. Her life, deeply entwined with King’s Lynn, offers a fascinating look into the world of medieval spirituality, social norms, and religious fervor. The story of Margery Kempe is both deeply personal and widely influential, and it remains an essential part of King’s Lynn’s rich cultural heritage.
Early Life in King’s Lynn
Margery Kempe was born into a well-off merchant family in Bishop’s Lynn, now known as King’s Lynn. Her father, John Brunham, served as the town’s mayor and held several positions of civic importance. This gave Margery a privileged upbringing and access to the upper layers of medieval urban society. Despite this, her early adult life was marked by a series of spiritual and personal crises that would ultimately shape her future path.
After marrying John Kempe and enduring childbirth, Margery suffered a severe bout of what may now be recognized as postpartum psychosis. During this period, she experienced vivid religious visions, including one of Jesus Christ comforting her. These visions set the foundation for her mystical life and devotion, which became increasingly intense over time.
A Woman of Visions and Voices
Margery Kempe claimed to have direct conversations with God, the Virgin Mary, and several saints. These visions often occurred during church services or while on pilgrimage. She would fall into fits of loud wailing and tears, which disturbed many of those around her. Such behavior, particularly from a laywoman, was not only unusual but also controversial. In a time when female mysticism was viewed with suspicion, Margery faced accusations of heresy and was brought before religious authorities on multiple occasions.
Her spiritual practices, which included wearing white as a symbol of chastity (despite being married) and begging for sustenance on pilgrimages, challenged societal expectations for women. Many viewed her actions as scandalous, while others considered her deeply pious. Regardless of public opinion, Margery remained firm in her commitment to live according to what she believed were divine instructions.
Writing the First English Autobiography
Perhaps the most enduring legacy of Margery Kempe is her book,The Book of Margery Kempe. This autobiographical work was dictated to scribes, as Margery herself was likely illiterate. It details her spiritual experiences, pilgrimages, and constant battles with those who questioned her faith.
The book is not merely a record of visions but a profound reflection on her inner struggles, her conversations with Christ, and her attempts to live a holy life in a world that often misunderstood her. It is an extraordinary document in English literary history, notable for its introspection and candid portrayal of the complexities of religious devotion.
Highlights of the Book
- Accounts of pilgrimages to the Holy Land, Rome, Santiago de Compostela, and various shrines in England
- Descriptions of mystical visions and divine communication
- Conflicts with clergy, laypeople, and her own family over her religious lifestyle
- Her decision to take a vow of chastity while still married
Pilgrimage and Public Reaction
Margery’s journeys took her far beyond the confines of King’s Lynn. She undertook pilgrimages to Jerusalem, Rome, and other sacred sites an extraordinary feat for a woman of her time, especially considering the dangers and hardships such travels entailed. During these travels, she continued to draw attention for her weeping and spiritual outbursts, which often alienated her from fellow travelers and religious officials.
In many towns, she was brought before bishops and inquisitors, accused of Lollardy (a heretical movement associated with John Wycliffe) or simply disturbing the peace. Yet she was never condemned and always managed to defend herself, often citing divine authority as her justification. Her ability to withstand interrogation and avoid punishment speaks to both her resilience and her deep belief in her spiritual calling.
Margery’s Relationship with the Church
Margery’s interactions with the Church were complex. While she faced suspicion and reprimand from certain authorities, she also found allies among sympathetic clergy who recognized the sincerity of her faith. Her confessor played a crucial role in helping her understand and interpret her experiences, guiding her through times of doubt and fear.
Despite her conflicts with some church officials, Margery always expressed deep reverence for the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. Her desire to live a devout life in union with Christ was the central focus of her spiritual journey, even when others questioned her methods or mental stability.
Legacy in King’s Lynn and Beyond
Today, King’s Lynn honors Margery Kempe not only as a historical figure but as a symbol of spiritual courage and literary achievement. Her life and writings have gained renewed interest among scholars, feminists, theologians, and general readers alike. The town itself has embraced her legacy, with local heritage sites highlighting her contributions and importance to Lynn’s medieval past.
Margery’s book provides a rare female perspective on medieval Christianity, one that was rarely preserved in the male-dominated literary world of her time. She stands out as a woman who, through personal suffering and unshakable conviction, made her voice heard across the centuries.
Modern Relevance of Margery Kempe
In today’s context, Margery Kempe resonates with readers for many reasons. Her life touches on themes of mental health, female agency, religious identity, and the power of storytelling. She represents a challenge to societal norms and a declaration of individuality grounded in spiritual experience. Her persistence in seeking her truth, despite ridicule and opposition, is a message that continues to inspire those navigating their own journeys of faith and self-expression.
Moreover, her existence as a figure from King’s Lynn connects this historic port town to a broader global heritage of mysticism, pilgrimage, and literature. Visitors to King’s Lynn today can walk in her footsteps and imagine the deep emotional and spiritual path that she once took through its streets, churches, and beyond.
Margery Kempe of King’s Lynn was a woman ahead of her time. Her visions, travels, and autobiographical writing carved out a unique space for her in the annals of history. Though controversial in her own era, she is now celebrated for her boldness, piety, and literary significance. Through her book and the legacy she left in King’s Lynn, Margery Kempe continues to offer a window into the medieval world and the spiritual lives of those often overlooked in traditional historical narratives.