Talking Out of Church: Women Arguing Theology In Sor Juana’s Loa to the Divino Narciso

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

1-1-2007

School

Social Science and Global Studies

Abstract

Juana de Asbaje was born mid-seventeenth century on a hacienda in rural Mexico where she learned to read and write in her grandfather’s library. She had a passion for Latin and a talent for verse that also made her popular in the Viceregal Court in Mexico City. Her disdain for life at court, however, prompted her to enter the convent, where she pursued her studies, wrote religious and secular plays and verses, composed music, and served as the convent accountant. Sor Juana also performed science experiments and corresponded with Kepler and other European scientists on contemporary scientific methods and philosophies. Sor Juana kept her connections with the Viceregal Court and occasionally was commissioned to write love verses for courtiers. She also was commissioned by various churches for musical and theatrical works to commemorate religious events such as the Feast of Corpus Christi and the dedication of new buildings.

Publication Title

The Catholic Church and Unruly Women Writers: Critical Essays

First Page

55

Last Page

68

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