I, Christine

In the year of grace 1396, Christine de Pizan is a young Parisian woman living in a tower overlooking the Seine, but hers is no fairy story. Since her beloved husband’s death, she struggles to support her aged mother and two small children. Seeking to ease her broken heart, Christine begins to write poetry that provides a much-needed outlet for her loneliness and sorrow.

In time, Christine begins reading her verses at court, attracting the interest of powerful nobles who become valued—and generous—patrons. She’s buoyed by her success until she learns that, as the only woman poet at court, she has also attracted the jealous attention of the men she has displaced.

Having finally gained confidence and financial stability, Christine takes up her pen in defense of women and as an advocate for peace even as malevolent forces threaten her and the kingdom’s very survival—but will it be enough? Can one woman, armed only with a pen and her wits, step into the breach and turn the tide?