“ADDING MARVELS TO MARVELS”. UNCORRUPTED BODIES AND HAGIOGRAPHIC LANGUAGE AROUND MARÍA ÁNGELA ASTORCH (1592-1665)

Abstract

This paper, within the framework of the study of female sainthood in Early Modern Age, especially between the mid-17th and early 18th centuries, examines the relevance of incorruption as proof in canonisation processes and as a recurrent element of hagiographic language. The case of María Ángela Astorch (1592-1665), a Capuchin Poor Clare, as well as other women from her milieu who died with a reputation for sanctity, is taken as a case study. The aim is to give an account of the relevance of incorruption in the theology and hagiography of the early 18th century.