The Virgin

Geoffrey Ashe examines the cult of the Virgin Mary, tracing how she has been represented as the Blessed Virgin, Queen of Heaven, Madonna and spiritual mother. The study considers Marian devotion through ancient myth, Christian theology, history, literature and feminine spirituality.

Ashe also investigates theories linking Mary with older traditions centred on female deities, while distinguishing historical evidence from speculation. The book follows the changing place of Mary within Christianity, including debates over virgin birth, devotion, celibacy and the Church’s treatment of feminine religious experience. Its later chapters consider how Mary’s role has been subordinated to Christ and why arguments about gender, authority and spirituality remain unresolved.