Throughout the Middle Ages and the Reformation, a story was told of the first female Pope, who had hidden her sex and been elevated to the highest position within the Church by accident. The story of Pope Joan is a total myth, but even today it serves as a useful lesson to illustrate the historical roots of the sexism and misogyny that still keeps women out of leadership positions.

Get 3 months of premium wireless service for $15 bucks a month at MintMobile.com/Blindness

Check out the show merch, perfect for gifts! 

Pledge support on Patreon to get an ad-free feed with exclusive episodes!

Check out my novel, Manuscript Found!

Find a transcript of this episode with source citations and related imagery at www.historicalblindness.com.

Direct all advertising inquiries to advertising@airwavemedia.com. Visit www.airwavemedia.com to find other high-quality podcasts!

Some music on this episode was licensed under a Blue Dot Sessions blanket license at the time of this episode's publication. Tracks include "Cicle DR Valga," "Jadie Grange," "Preston and Carle," "Delicates," "Calisson," "Palms Down," and "Black Ballots."

Additional music, including "Remedy for Melancholy," is by Kai Engel, licensed under Creative Commons.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices