In a captivating blend of historical insight and contemporary relevance, 'The Woman Question' at People's Light Theatre in Malvern, Pennsylvania, delves into the fascinating world of the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, a pioneering institution that opened its doors in 1850. This play, written and directed by Suli Holum, offers a unique perspective on the lives of its diverse student body, shedding light on the complex interplay between medicine, culture, and societal norms.
Unveiling the Past, Illuminating the Present
The Woman's Medical College, located at Sixth and Arch streets in Philadelphia, was a beacon of progress, accepting students regardless of their background, a rarity in the 19th century. Holum's focus, however, is on the students for whom attending this college was a monumental achievement, a step towards empowerment and equality.
Among the cast of characters are a formerly enslaved woman from South Carolina, an Indigenous woman from the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska, and students from India, Japan, Russia, and Syria. The play explores the rich tapestry of their backgrounds and the unique perspectives they brought to the college.
For instance, the Japanese student, Kei Okami, arrived with a deep understanding of traditional Japanese kampo medical practices, which were being dismissed by the late 19th-century Japanese government in favor of Western medicine. Okami's presence highlights the clash between traditional knowledge and modern Western practices, a theme that resonates even today.
Medical Jurisprudence and the Fight for Women's Health
A significant aspect of the college's curriculum was the teaching of medical jurisprudence, particularly in the context of abortion and miscarriage care. Dr. Anna Elizabeth Broomall, an esteemed obstetrics instructor, taught a medical jurisprudence class and staged mock trials to prepare students for the legal challenges they might face.
This aspect of the play takes on a particularly urgent tone in light of recent political developments. Holum notes that in states where abortion is now illegal, medical students are not being trained in miscarriage care, blurring the lines between abortion care and miscarriage management.
A Historical Play with Contemporary Relevance
'The Woman Question' is not merely a historical drama; it is a play that speaks directly to the issues of women's health and reproductive rights in the 21st century. Just weeks before the play's opening, a pro-life organization called for the enforcement of the Comstock Act, a 153-year-old law that prohibited the mailing of 'lewd' and 'obscene' items, including birth control.
Holum observes that the Comstock Act, passed in 1873, was intended to restrict women's fertility control, a theme that is once again in the national spotlight. The play, therefore, serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's rights and health.
A Joyful Celebration of Individuality
Despite the high-pressure environment of medical school, 'The Woman Question' highlights the joy and expressiveness of its characters. Holum notes that the archives are filled with evidence of their playful nature, from costume parties to charades and poetry. This play, then, is not just a historical account but a celebration of the rich, diverse, and joyful lives of these pioneering women.
'The Woman Question' runs until May 24 at People's Light Theatre, offering a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the past and its enduring relevance to the present.
