Passive Constructions of Medieval Mystics : Julian of Norwich and Margery Kempe

The present study is an attempt to contribute to further knowledge of passive constructions in Middle English by examining three devotional prose by two medieval women: A Revelations of Love by Dame Julian of Norwich (Short and Long version) and The Book of Margery Kempe. The two mystics are the most prominent women of Middle English devotional prose. Considering influence from Julian to Kempe, it is significant to consider both works together. Since the passive is used according to some discourse and cultural factors, it is beneficial to consider from pragmatic point of view. Despite the significance, persuasive research has not been achieved on the topic yet. The article will investigate to what elements of style are related to the passive constructions. On one hand Julian\u27s prose are analytic; on the other, Kempe is rather emotional and little analytic. Their style reflects the usage of the passive. Julian in favour of literary ways of writing adopts many passives in set expressions, while Kempe\u27s colloquial style causes comparative fewer appearance of the construction