I was given Murderers I have known by Marina Warner for Christmas. Last night I read one story. Not really après Christmas fare for me because it was so dark and bizarre. It was loosely based on the legend of St Ursula and the 11,000 virgin martyrs buried in Cologne. As a storyteller, I found her somewhat distant and was glad of it in the end given the nature of the tale. It would appear from looking up St. Ursula on the Net it was probably 11 and not 11,000 slaughtered virgins and it was at the time of Attila the Hun. Sources seem to differ as to whether she came from Britain or Brittany but agree on the fact the Virgin Islands were named after her and this event. She is well represented in European culture and coats of arms and, in the end, I found this story of St. Ursula very intriguing. She has had a powerful influence on lives and literature throughout the ages and seemed to be a lady of strong influence and character. The story by Marina Warner embroiders considerably on the theme but with her unique contribution. Can'’t wait for the next tale! Dare I?
Wikipedia
Cologne
Wilson's Almanac
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