Watch Divine Women

Divine Women is a captivating and insightful documentary series produced by the BBC Select that examines the role of women in religion and society throughout history. The program follows the fascinating journey of presenter and historian Bettany Hughes as she travels across the world, visiting various religious sites, and exploring the influence of women in the evolution of religious traditions and society at large. The series is comprised of three episodes, and each installment narrates a distinct theme, ranging from ancient Greek priestesses to women in the early Christian church.

In the first episode titled "When God was a Girl," Bettany Hughes explores the role of women in the polytheistic religion of ancient Greece. She visits several significant locations, such as the temple of Artemis in Ephesus, and delves into the significance of women in mythology and religious practice. The episode delves into the unique spiritual and political power that women held as oracles, priestesses, and patronesses, and the reasons behind their erasure in later eras. Hughes' deep research provides valuable insight into the cultural and religious impact of the ancient Greek goddesses on the status and empowerment of women in society.

In the second episode titled "Handmaids of the Divine," Bettany Hughes travels to Jerusalem, Rome, and Oxford to trace the impact of women in the developing Christian church. The episode follows a chronological line, starting on how women held positions of power in the early Church, especially in the Byzantine Empire, through to the activities of the mystic Hildegard of Bingen later on. Hughes explores Helen, Paula, Mary Magdalene, and other significant women in Christian history who made seminal contributions to the development of Christian theology while going through trials and tribulations due to patriarchal norms.

The final episode of the series, "Warrior Women," focuses on the relationship between women and warfare, both religious and secular. The episode examines the unique contributions women have made to conflicts over history, highlighting women's changing roles from peacekeepers to strategic thinkers and warriors. Hughes travels to Ethiopia to explore the legend of Saint Yared Digua, a female warrior who led a successful crusade against violence and injustice. Additionally, the episode connects, historically and narratively, to the role of women in defending communities against invasion and the impact of religious ideologies on these acts of defense.

The series is a fascinating and enlightening exploration of the spiritual and cultural dimensions of women in religion and society. Each episode is informative and engaging and combines riveting location shots, insightful analysis, and interviews with scholars and experts in religious studies. The show offers a new lens on history that balances historical accuracy with a profound appreciation of women's role in shaping the course of the world.

In conclusion, Divine Women is an excellent series that explores the pivotal role of women in religion and society throughout history. Through her travels, Bettany Hughes provides an eye-opening account of the erasure and significance of women in cultures, religions, and communities. This documentary series is a must-watch for anyone passionate about history, religion or women’s studies.

Divine Women is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between April 9, 2012 and on BBC Select