Matrix

Book 2 has no divisions but is one long chapter that takes place over almost 30 years. Marie is 21 when the chapter begins and is almost 50 and entering menopause by the time the chapter ends.

In her new role as prioress, Marie must navigate the patriarchal hierarchy of the church. Her “diocesan superiors” make constant demands on her time (54). She gradually learns to manipulate them through a combination of attention and avoidance: “She must train her superiors in the community like dogs or falcons, with rewards, and slowly, so they don’t know they’re being trained” (56).

She also must manage the lands around the abbey. When some peasants on the abbey’s land are sickened by bad winter barley, Emme and Marie decide to burn and sanctify the barley field. They do this to save their reputations, knowing that as a group of women they are viewed with constant suspicion. Marie is impressed by Emme’s fierce demeanor during the sanctification, which lasts an entire night. Emme later tells her that she made up the ritual chant herself: “Ritual creates its own catharsis, Marie. Mystical acts create mystical beliefs” (59).

As a prioress, Marie resolves to emulate Eleanor’s machinations at her court: “She [like Eleanor] will build around herself walls of wealth and friends and good clear reputation, she will make her frail sisters safe within” (60).