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Katherine of Sutton, Abbess of Barking (abbess 1358–1376), was a Catholic woman, known for her innovative techniques and creative plays that she wrote during her time at Barking Abbey.〔 〕 ==Biography== As Barking Abbey only accepted women of noble birth, it is almost certain that Katherine was born into nobility.〔 〕 Her position as Abbess of Barking would have ranked her equivalent to a Baroness in medieval English aristocracy.〔 〕 Katherine held office from 1358 to 1376, during the peak of Barking Abbey’s existence. When she became the abbess of Barking Abbey in 1358, she inherited a very powerful position of authority and publicity. As the abbess, she was responsible for both the political and theological affairs of the convent. She was also responsible for the safety and well-being of all nuns in her convent, in addition to leading and planning the liturgical ceremonies. Typically in English convents, the nun of the highest ranking was considered the supreme authority and had the most responsibility. Specifically, the abbess was required to provide goods and services for royal wars, as well as housing criminals until trial.〔 In order to display her power, the abbess carried a staff similar to a bishop's crozier.〔 The most historically significant power that Katherine had as an abbess was the ability to initiate changes in the liturgical practices of the convent. This was particularly significant because although some women during this time period were able to hold power in a clerical position, a man was usually present as the overall supervisor. In the case of an abbess, there was always a bishop alongside her in office, however it is unclear as to whether or not she had to report to him before making any official changes or decisions. If any changes were made to the liturgical processes, the abbess would record them in the ''Ordinale'', a manuscript of Barking’s customs.〔 This book was passed down to each abbess, and was only for her eyes only. Regardless of whether or not she had to report to the Bishop of England, Katherine made several changes to the liturgical process of the convent. Under her progressive authority, Katherine incorporated performing arts into the celebration of Easter, in an effort to stimulate the audience and continue their devotion towards God. 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「Katherine of Sutton」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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