The Vanity of a Visionary: A Close Reading of the Inquisitorial Trial of Francisca de los Apostáles (de Avila)

This thesis explores the trial of Francisca de los Apostáles, a woman who lived in Toledo, Spain, during the mid- to late-sixteenth century. Her Inquisitorial trial provides insight into the subversion of female authority and autonomy by the Spanish Inquisition through the labeling of women as vain and prideful. The thesis examines the ways in which women tried to counter this subversion, with Francisca's trial serving as a case study. The thesis discusses how inquisitors used accusations of vanity to denounce women who defied social order and how their methodology included making the accused question their own reality. The thesis also examines Francisca's defense methods and her struggle with her positionality in defense against the Inquisition while remaining faithful to her religious vows. The thesis argues that Francisca's trial serves as a powerful illustration of the marginalization of women, and further study is recommended.