Miss Mia Jacobs
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Biography
MPhil project Currently, I am awaiting a viva examination for my MPhil thesis titled "A Theology of Periods in Disgust and in Awe: Exploring feminine blood, thought, and language in gynocentric Christianity."
In this thesis, I explain why menstruation must be discussed more openly, and explore some ways in which a gynocentric theology of Christianity can be developed. Specifically, I focus on the dynamic between Biblical language and misogynist theologies regarding menstruation; the gaps in feminine theology as a consequence of androcentric ministry; theology of the womb and menstruation, importantly, from women’s perspectives; seeking a place for the emancipated, self-possessed woman in Christian theology; and reconciling this modern woman with the Virgin Mary.
Further research interests I have a deep interest in the use of arts-based research methods to enrich the study of gynaecological health and bring about improvement in quality of life through honest and embracing discussions of menstruation. I am actively seeking opportunities to collaborate with STEM researchers in clinical studies.
My work is anchored in the belief that by normalising conversations around menstruation in seemingly abstracted fields such as theology, the possibility for cultural shifts towards openness and understanding of the female body is facilitated, which in turn generates much needed pressure for more focused medical research of the female body.
Research interests
Following my viva exam, I am working part-time on MPhil corrections and seeking part-time employment. With my recent nomination as Postgraduate Research Representative for the Faculty of Arts, I'm making the most of my extended time with the Bristol Doctoral College.
While my work straddles disciplines, the key topic of my research in all areas is menstruation. The driving values behind my work are advocacy for women's health, and a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. These values are rooted in my own personal experience and an appreciation for the use of personal experience as a key data source.
MPhil project
For my MPhil in Religion and Theology, I am researching contemporary experiences of menstruation. The aims of this project are:
a) a critique of existing, inadequate readings of menstruation in Christian theology and practice
b) a development of a new, positive reading of menstruation, based primarily on qualitative data demonstrating women's contemporary lived experience.
In this thesis, I explain why menstruation must be discussed more openly, and explore some ways in which a gynocentric theology of Christianity can be developed. Specifically, I focus on the significance of historical misconstruals of menstruation in contemporary Christian and Christian-adjacent cultures; an examination of how the consultation of women's lived experience as a primary data source reshapes menstrual theology; and an exploration of how the act of leaning into paradox as theological method, rather than attempting to justify or correct it, can reshape theology of menstruation.
Further research interests
I have a deep interest in the use of arts-based research methods to enrich the study of gynaecological health and bring about improvement in quality of life through honest and embracing discussions of menstruation. I am actively seeking opportunities to contribute to clinical projects on the study of pain management and personal experience regarding menstrual health.
My work is anchored in the belief that by normalising conversations around menstruation in seemingly abstracted fields such as theology, the possibility for cultural shifts towards openness and understanding of the female body is facilitated, which in turn generates much needed pressure for more focused medical research of the female body.