An OG badass "Bitch" - Boudicca
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Email me: kelly@thebitchwhisperer.me
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This week on "Re-feminist History" we are throwing it way back in Bitchstory to 30-60AD!
If you were born in the UK, you were probably taught about her in school. In the US (where I am), we were not taught about her at all in primary grades. We are talking about Boudicca. She was a Celtic Queen (shoutout to my ancestors!), and has become a feminist icon and symbol of resistance.
I'm going to save the bulk of this Bitchstory lesson for the podcast, but here's the basics:
Boudicca was married to the King of the Iceni people. Her story really begins when he died. The Romans, ignoring Prasutagus's will that left his kingdom jointly to his daughters, annexed the territory, flogged Boudicca, and violated her daughters. This brutal treatment ignited Boudicca's rebellion, transforming her into a symbol of resistance against oppression.
As a leader, Boudicca was exceptional. She unified various tribes, amassing an army reportedly numbering in the tens of thousands. Her leadership during the revolt was marked by strategic acumen and unwavering resolve, leading to victories, albeit temporary, against one of the most powerful empires in history.
Her role as a leader in a patriarchal society (the fucking patriarchy!) challenges the notion that women were inherently subordinate to men. Her ability to inspire and lead a large-scale rebellion against a formidable foe showcases the potential for female leadership and military prowess, defying traditional gender roles.
Boudicca's impact extends beyond her historical context, finding resonance in contemporary feminist movements. Her story is frequently invoked as a symbol of the struggle against patriarchal oppression and the fight for gender equality. Statues of Boudicca, such as the prominent one near the Houses of Parliament in London, serve as enduring reminders of her defiance and resilience.
Boudicca's story is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity. As a feminist icon, she represents the potential for women to lead, inspire, and effect change, challenging the confines of a patriarchal society. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower, reminding us that the fight for justice and equality is timeless.
And P.S. She is usually depicted as a redhead.