Saint Margaret c. 1480 - 1490

This is an engraving of Saint Margaret, created by the artist known only as Monogrammist BR. Saint Margaret was incredibly popular in the medieval period. The story goes that she was swallowed by Satan in the form of a dragon, but she burst forth from the belly of the beast, unharmed, because she carried a cross in her hand. The emotional resonance of this tale isn't difficult to understand; it presents a young woman who is capable of overcoming any obstacle. Here, Saint Margaret stands in triumph over the dragon. Representations like this one played a crucial role in shaping female identity and agency within religious contexts. Note how the artist has chosen to depict her as both regal and serene, embodying a complex interplay of power, beauty, and innocence. The image is not merely a religious icon; it's a cultural artifact that tells us about the aspirations, fears, and societal values of the time. How can we carry our own metaphorical crosses as we face the dragons in our own lives?