Menu. Pope Joan is a sweeping historical drama set against the turbulent events of the ninth century - the Saracen sacking of St. Peter's; the famous fire in the Borgo that destroyed over three quarters of the Vatican; and the Battle of Fontenoy, arguably the bloodiest and most terrible of medieval conflicts. She is the legend that will not die--Pope Joan, a controversial figure of historical record who, disguised as a man, rose to rule Christianity in the 9th century as the first and only woman to sit on the throne of St. Peter. Movies.
To think, I bought it months ago, and it’s sat on my shelf all that time.
A Synopsis of Pope Joan For a thousand years, her existence has been denied. See all Audience reviews Over time Joan, disguised as John Anglicus, is eventually afforded opportunities at levels of power that most men never reach.
Pope Joan is the story of a medieval-era young woman who is intellectually brilliant and motivated in her desire to learn all she can about religion and medicine. Cross has done a superb job bringing the tale of Pope Joan to life in this riveting, epic page-turner.
... As a protégée of rivals in the viper nest-like papal court, she ends up elected as pope, but carries count Gerold's baby, guaranteeing exposure.
Daisy M Super Reviewer. Pope Joan was a decent good historical movie and what it lacked in the visual arts, made up in strength of plot and screenplay. Pope Joan has recently become one of my most favorite books.
I guess now is the time when I needed to read the book.