Byrthrite
By: Sarah Daniels
Contributors: Daniels, Sarah, 1957-
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published: 2013
Place of publication: London]
Language: eng
Description: Set in the 17th century, 'Byrthrite' tells the story of a group of women who, using a variety of tactics and paths, fight back against the growing, male-dominated obsession with herbal medicine, so-called 'witchcraft', and the purging of innocent women. Daniels repeatedly shows the connection between the medical profession and the subjugation of women: as timely an observation in the era of IVF and the fight for abortion rights as it was in 17th century Britain, suggesting that solidarity amongst women in this matter can and should transcend all other dichotomies of politics, religion and wealth. 'Byrthrite' was first produced in the Royal Court Theatre Upstairs, London, in 1986.
Notes: Previously published in print: in Plays one. London, Methuen Drama, 1997.