"Pope Joan" by Donna Woolfolk Cross tells the story of a young girl named Joan who defies societal norms in the Christian Roman empire by disguising herself as a man to pursue education and eventually becomes Pope. The narrative covers Joan's journey from her childhood to her rise to power, exploring themes of conspiracies in the Catholic church, feminism, and historical events of the 9th century. reads like a biography, blending historical facts with fictional elements to create an engaging and thought-provoking tale.

The author weaves a compelling story of Joan's life, drawing readers into a world filled with superstitions, prejudices, and political intrigue. Through well-researched details and strong character development, the book explores the challenges faced by Joan as she navigates a male-dominated society and rises to a position of power, challenging the traditional beliefs of the time. Despite some criticisms of the ending and writing style, "Pope Joan" offers an intriguing look at an alleged historical figure and prompts readers to question the roles of women in religion and society.

Characters:

The characters range from strong and admirable, like Joan, to flat and stereotypical, particularly amongst the male characters, which can detract from the overall complexity of the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging, with a fluid narrative that captures the historical setting; however, it sometimes sacrifices period-appropriate characterization for modern sensibilities.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot intricately weaves Joan's personal struggles with broader historical themes, highlighting her transformation from a curious girl to a powerful figure while exploring the dangers of her deception.

Setting:

The setting vividly illustrates 9th century Europe, showcasing the challenges of the time and enriching the narrative with historical context.

Pacing:

The pacing is mostly engaging, quickly drawing readers into the narrative, though some portions may feel rushed or underdeveloped.

It was raining, a hard spring downpour that filled the night air with the sweet-sour smell of newly plowed earth. Rain thudded on the roof of the canon’s grubenhaus, but the thickly woven thatching ke...

Notes:

The book is based on the medieval legend of Pope Joan, a woman who allegedly disguised herself as a man and became Pope in the 9th century.

Joan's father was a Canon who was strict and unkind, punishing her for seeking knowledge, which he considered sinful.

Joan was educated in secret by her brother, as girls were not allowed to be educated in that time period.

After her brother died, Joan assumed his identity and entered a monastery as 'John Anglicus'.

The book depicts the harsh realities of life during the Dark Ages, including battles, political intrigue, and the struggle for power within the Catholic Church.

Joan becomes known for her exceptional intellect, healing skills, and ability to engage in religious debates, which allows her to rise through the ranks of the Church.

There is a strong theme of feminism, as Joan's journey challenges the male-dominated society of her time and emphasizes women's rights to education and knowledge.

The story highlights her internal conflict between love and duty, particularly her relationship with Gerold, her romantic interest.

Critics noted that while Joan is a strong character, many male characters are portrayed negatively, reflecting the misogyny of the era.

The narrative includes discussions about the possible historical existence of Pope Joan, with a detailed Author's Note providing context and evidence for her legend.

The writing is described as immersive, capturing the sensations and thoughts of Joan's experiences vividly.

Despite its heavy themes, the book is noted for its relatively fast pacing and engaging plot development.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Themes of misogyny, violence, and intense personal struggle may be triggering for some readers.

Has Romance?

Romantic elements are present but primarily take a backseat to Joan's struggle for identity and knowledge.

From The Publisher:

"Engaging . . . Pope Joan has all the elements: love, sex, violence, duplicity, and long-buried secrets."

-Los Angeles Times Book Review

For a thousand years men have denied her existence-Pope Joan, the woman who disguised herself as a man and rose to rule Christianity for two years. Now this compelling novel animates the legend with a portrait of an unforgettable woman who struggles against restrictions her soul cannot accept.

When her older brother dies in a Viking attack, the brilliant young Joan assumes his identity and enters a Benedictine monastery where, as Brother John Anglicus, she distinguishes herself as a scholar and healer. Eventually drawn to Rome, she soon becomes enmeshed in a dangerous mix of powerful passion and explosive politics that threatens her life even as it elevates her to the highest throne in the Western world.

"Brings the savage ninth century vividly to life in all its alien richness. An enthralling, scholarly historical novel."

-Rebecca Fraser, Author of The Brontës

Ratings (3)

Incredible (1)
It Was OK (2)

Reader Stats (18):

Read It (3)
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1 comment(s)

ColorfulLeo92

It Was OK

2 months

Pope Joan is myth and Donna Woolfolk Cross breathed life to the legend making a novelised version of it. This is book nr 16 in a row that I have rated 3 stars or less. I do not know it its just me picking up books that dosent fully work for me or I'm in a reading slump and cannot enjoy anything that I read. The base of the story was very compelling and interesting but I don't feel like I've been in the right brain frame for the book and I'll hopefully pick it up again in a later date and see how I'll enjoy it then.

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About the Author:

Donna Woolfolk Cross graduated cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of Pennsylvania in 1969 with a B.A. in English. She moved to London, England, after graduation and worked as an editorial assistant for a small publishing house on Fleet Street, W.H. Allen and Company. Upon her return to the United States, Cross worked at Young and Rubicam, a Madison Avenue advertising firm, before going on to graduate school at UCLA where she earned a master's degree in Literature and Writing in 1972.

In 1973, Cross moved to Syracuse, New York, with her husband and began teaching in the English department at an upstate New York college. She is the author of two books on language, Word Abuse and Mediaspeak, and coauthor of Speaking of Words. The product of seven years of research and writing, Pope Joan is her first novel. Cross is at work on a new novel set in 17th century France.

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Pope Joan

Donna Woolfolk Cross