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What the Book Explores

Jeffrey Jerome Cohen’s Medieval Identity Machines investigates the construction of identity in the medieval period, specifically focusing on how the monstrous and the abject were utilized to define the boundaries of the “normal” and the “human.” The work moves beyond a simple understanding of medieval monsters as purely symbolic, instead arguing they functioned as intricate “machines” that produced and regulated identity. Cohen examines a range of medieval texts – including bestiaries, romances, and hagiographies – to demonstrate how the representation of creatures like giants, dwarfs, and hybrids served not only to terrify but also to solidify social norms and power structures. A central thesis is that the process of defining ‘otherness’ was crucial in crafting a sense of self, both individually and collectively. He posits that these “machines” weren’t static but constantly adapting and evolving in response to societal anxieties and changes.

Historical / Cultural Context

Published in 1999, Medieval Identity Machines emerges within a burgeoning field of medieval studies that was shifting away from traditional source criticism and toward more theoretical and culturally-focused approaches. This period witnessed a growing interest in poststructuralist and psychoanalytic theories, which Cohen skillfully integrates into his analysis. The book represents a significant contribution to the “monster studies” movement, which began to recognize monsters not simply as imaginative creations but as crucial cultural artifacts reflecting underlying societal concerns. It responds to previous scholarship that often treated medieval monsters as straightforward allegories, offering a more nuanced and complex interpretation that emphasizes their active role in shaping medieval subjectivity. The late 20th-century rise of identity politics also informs the work, prompting a re-evaluation of how identity was negotiated in pre-modern societies.

Who This Book Is For

This book is primarily aimed at academic audiences, specifically students and scholars of medieval literature, history, cultural studies, and monster studies. However, its insights into the psychological and social functions of “othering” can be of interest to a broader readership interested in the construction of identity and the dynamics of social exclusion. While Cohen’s writing is theoretically informed, he presents his arguments in a clear and engaging manner, making the book accessible to those with a foundational understanding of medieval culture. It’s not a casual read, but it’s rewarding for those willing to engage with its complex ideas.

Further Reading

• The Matter of Dragons by Jacqueline Simpson: A comprehensive exploration of the cultural history of dragons.
• Freakery: Cultural Spectacles of the Extraordinary by Robert Bogdan: Examines the history and cultural significance of freak shows and displays of “abnormalities”.
• Misogynies by Julia Kristeva: A foundational text in feminist psychoanalysis, relevant to Cohen’s analysis of abjection and the feminine monstrous.

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