Byrthrite

Set in the 17th century, 'Byrthrite' tells the story of a group of women who, using a variety of tactics and paths, fight back against the growing, male-dominated obsession with herbal medicine, so-called 'witchcraft', and the purging of innocent women. Daniels repeatedly shows the connection between the medical profession and the subjugation of women: as timely an observation in the era of IVF and the fight for abortion rights as it was in 17th century Britain, suggesting that solidarity amongst women in this matter can and should transcend all other dichotomies of politics, religion and wealth. 'Byrthrite' was first produced in the Royal Court Theatre Upstairs, London, in 1986.