Now that you’ve had a chance to explore the evidence, write a short essay (four to five paragraphs) on the following topic:

As a twelfth-century supporter or critic, assess the importance of Hildegard of Bingen. If you write from the point of view of a supporter, highlight the aspects of Hildegard’s life and work that such a person might find appealing and inspiring. If you write from the point of view of a critic, highlight the aspects of her life and work that such a person might find unconventional, threatening, or heretical. Whichever choice you make, be sure to include a discussion of Hildegard’s gender in your essay.

You may find it helpful to review the section “The Christian Church” in Chapter 14 of your textbook before you begin.