In the 2nd C, when the ox and the ass entered Christian nativity lore, so did a pair of midwives for the Virgin Mary. I learned about them a decade ago when I first read A Book of Carols (1966) edited by Eleanor Sayre and illustrated with artwork from Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. A note to an engraving says that until the 15th century, the midwives were frequently shown performing various tasks but were "not tolerated" by the church thereafter. What a motif for feminist meditations! (NB: the ox and ass got to stay.) Or for new carols, poems, or seasonal fiction. In my case, so far, it has only yielded a portfolio of images, but maybe, maybe, someday something more….
In any case, for all of us in this dark world, let Christmas be a day to rejoice in new beginnings, inspiration, and appreciation for the family, friends, and animal companions who are midwives to our imaginations.
Merry Christmas!
In any case, for all of us in this dark world, let Christmas be a day to rejoice in new beginnings, inspiration, and appreciation for the family, friends, and animal companions who are midwives to our imaginations.
Merry Christmas!