Miriam of Magdala

Mary Magdalene, 1530, byJan van Scorel (1495-1562),Oil on panel,67 x 76,5 cm

Mary Jane O'Brien, Ph.D.

Miriam of Magdala/Mary Magdalene/Mary of Magdala/Magdalene 

Dr. O'Brien examines in this lecture the ambiguities, conflicts, and contradictions often associated with the traditional interpretation of Mary Magdalene. She argues that these negative views, however, are misguided and mistaken. O'Brien offers instead a positive vision of Mary as a courageous, dynamic figure, and close confidant of Jesus. She also encourages other women who may have been "misrepresented or stereotyped," to follow the model of Mary Magdalene's faith and confidence in God's love, and to persist despite such oppression.