You're Dead to Me – Episode: Benedetta Carlini (Radio Edit) Summary
Release Date: November 29, 2024
Introduction
In this episode of You're Dead to Me, BBC Radio 4's comedy podcast that takes history seriously, host Greg Jenner delves into the intriguing and scandalous life of 17th-century nun Benedetta Carlini. Joined by esteemed guests Professor Michelle Sauer, a distinguished historian specializing in Medieval studies, and Sophie Duker, an award-winning comedian, Jenner explores the complex interplay between faith, mysticism, and controversy in Benedetta's life.
1. Family Background and Early Life (02:11 - 05:24)
Greg Jenner introduces Benedetta Carlini, born on January 20, 1590, in Villano, Tuscany, Italy, to a wealthy and devout family. Professor Michelle Sauer provides insight into her early life, highlighting that Benedetta was the sole child of Medea and Giuliana Carlini. Her father, being the third richest man in Villano, ensured that Benedetta received a strong religious upbringing. At the tender age of nine, Benedetta entered the convent in Pesha, joining the Theatines, an unofficial religious community founded by Piera Pagni in the same year of Benedetta's birth.
Notable Quote:
Greg Jenner (05:16): "Is Benedetta like the 'Blessed One'? Absolutely, she was named Benedetta, meaning 'Blessed,' in gratitude to God for her survival at birth."
2. Mystical Visions and Stigmata (05:24 - 16:47)
From an early age, Benedetta exhibited signs of extraordinary piety and mysticism. By age five, she was adept at reciting litanies and praying the rosary independently. She reportedly had a nightingale that would sing on command and even engage in singing the Lauds with her. However, her spiritual experiences were not without darker elements. Benedetta encountered a mysterious black dog that attempted to drag her away, symbolizing a demonic presence.
As Benedetta grew, her mystical experiences intensified. At fifteen, she began exhibiting stigmata—wounds corresponding to those of Jesus Christ. These physical manifestations included intense pain and wounds on her hands, feet, and side, mirroring Christ's crucifixion injuries.
Notable Quote:
Michelle Sauer (06:04): "By the time she was five, she was reciting the litany, saying the rosary on her own, and even experienced miracles like a nightingale singing on command."
3. Rise to Influence and Controversies (16:47 - 22:27)
Benedetta's spiritual fervor eventually led her to take on more significant roles within the convent. At 23, she was elected abbess, reflecting her influence and the trust placed in her by her peers. Her charismatic leadership, however, began to raise eyebrows. She started preaching from the pulpit—a role traditionally reserved for men—and claimed to receive direct messages from divine entities.
Her close relationship with Bartolomea Clivelli, designated as her companion to help manage her intense spiritual experiences, added another layer of complexity. Benedetta's claims included vivid visions of interactions with angels and even a mystical marriage to Jesus, which further fueled suspicions about her true nature.
Notable Quote:
Greg Jenner (15:23): "She was starting to make the church nervous... visions were looked at with suspicion, especially when they involve such bodily manifestations."
4. Church Investigation and Downfall (22:27 - 25:05)
Benedetta's increasing authority and unconventional claims did not go unnoticed by higher church authorities. The Pope dispatched a nuncio—an official representative—to investigate the legitimacy of her visions and practices. The investigation revealed several troubling signs, including Benedetta's secret consumption of meat and a particular fondness for salami and mortadella, which contradicted her pious facade.
Moreover, allegations emerged about Benedetta engaging in sexual activities with Bartolomea, purportedly under the influence of an angelic figure named Splendatello. This relationship was scrutinized heavily, leading to charges deemed as "Immodest Acts." Under mounting pressure, Benedetta recanted her mystical claims and adhered to orthodox practices. However, historical records suggest that her reformation was superficial, as she was subsequently imprisoned in solitary confinement for 35 years until her death at age 71.
Notable Quote:
Greg Jenner (22:14): "Benedetta is claiming that Splendatello is making them do it... It's like someone is watching."
5. Nuance Window: Medieval Lesbians and Historical Context (25:05 - 28:30)
In the "Nuance Window" segment, Professor Michelle Sauer expands the discussion to the broader context of medieval lesbianism. She underscores the rarity and societal challenges faced by women in same-sex relationships during the medieval period. Sauer emphasizes that historical documentation often reflects only persecuted relationships, making figures like Benedetta Carlini crucial for understanding the hidden histories of female same-sex relationships.
Notable Quote:
Michelle Sauer (25:30): "Studying medieval lesbians allows for participation in the creation of social and sexual histories and forefronts the female experience in a field that continues to be dominated by white straight men."
6. Conclusion and Legacy (28:30 - 29:15)
As the episode wraps up, Greg Jenner reflects on the tragic arc of Benedetta's life—her rise as a mystical figure, subsequent fall from grace, and the enduring questions about her true experiences and motivations. The episode underscores the complexities of interpreting historical figures who navigated strict religious and societal norms.
Notable Quote:
Greg Jenner (29:15): "Join me next time as we investigate more historical friendships in inverted commas. But for now, I'm off to go and offer Satan some of my salami."
Closing Remarks
You're Dead to Me seamlessly blends historical analysis with comedic banter, offering listeners an engaging exploration of Benedetta Carlini's life. By juxtaposing academic insights with humor, the podcast makes nuanced historical narratives accessible and entertaining.
Key Takeaways:
- Benedetta Carlini was a prominent 17th-century nun whose mystical experiences and behaviors sparked significant controversy.
- Her relationship with Bartolomea Clivelli and claims of divine interaction were central to the suspicions that led to her investigation and eventual downfall.
- The episode highlights the broader historical context of female same-sex relationships and the challenges faced in documenting such histories.
For those interested in further exploring Benedetta Carlini's story and other historical narratives, You're Dead to Me offers a compelling mix of education and entertainment.