Women in Pre-Siege Malta: A Study Based on the Acts of Notary Matteo De Brincat, 1564

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In the shadow of the looming Ottoman Siege of 1565, the island of Malta was a tapestry of rich and complex social interactions, often overlooked in the grand narratives of history. Ryan Grech’s study, based on the notarial acts of Matteo De Brincat from September 1564, sheds light on the roles and experiences of women during this turbulent pre-siege period. Through meticulous examination of these documents, written in a blend of Latin, Sicilian, and early Maltese, we gain intimate insights into the daily lives and societal contributions of Maltese women.

By the mid-16th century, Malta had transitioned from Spanish rule to become the stronghold of the Order of St. John, following their expulsion from Rhodes in 1522. The Knights of Saint John, while establishing their sovereignty, significantly altered the island’s political and social landscape. The administrative hub shifted from the ancient inland city of Mdina to Birgu, a fortified harbor town that became the epicenter of the Order’s military and economic activities. The period was marked by strategic military preparations, corsairing activities, and a diverse cultural milieu including Greek settlers from Rhodes.

Despite the patriarchal norms of the time, women in Malta were active participants in various societal sectors. The notarial records provide a rare glimpse into their roles, particularly in marriage, property transactions, and financial dealings.

Marriage contracts were pivotal in ensuring women’s security and independence. Dowries, often substantial and detailed, safeguarded women’s financial interests in cases of marital disruption. For instance, Francisca Mifsud’s marriage contract, arranged by her sisters after their parents’ demise, included properties and cash, underscoring the importance of dowries in securing women’s future.

In another poignant case, Ventura Bortelli’s dowry arrangements had to navigate the grim realities of her father’s captivity and her aunt’s enslavement. Such contracts not only highlighted familial responsibilities but also the harsh socio-economic conditions faced by women.

Women like Agatha Debono and Barsula from Qormi engaged in land transactions, demonstrating their agency in economic matters. Agatha bought and sold land with her brother, while Barsula’s strategic land sales reflect a nuanced understanding of property value and rights. These acts underscore how women managed their assets and exercised significant control over land and property.

The records also reveal women’s involvement in financial transactions. Catherina Haxixe and her sister Isolda Caseha, for instance, lent money and managed family estates, showcasing a level of financial acumen and independence. Despite the Church’s condemnation of usury, these “friendly” loans illustrate the practical financial networks women navigated.

Women were not only economic agents but also custodians of social welfare. Fostering agreements, like those involving Catherina, a Greek woman, and Malgarita Grima, who took in orphaned girls, highlight the critical role women played in nurturing and supporting vulnerable members of society. These acts of care went beyond familial obligations, reflecting a broader societal responsibility.

As the threat of an Ottoman invasion grew imminent, Malta’s societal fabric remained resilient. The island, predominantly agrarian with a significant focus on cotton production, continued to thrive. Despite the looming danger, the community maintained its routine life, deeply intertwined with the Church and its extensive landholdings.

In this setting, women’s roles were multifaceted. They were integral to the agricultural economy, participated in public life, and navigated complex social expectations. While they did not enjoy equal rights with men, their active involvement in economic and social affairs challenges the traditional narratives of passive female roles.

Ryan Grech’s exploration into the acts of Notary Matteo De Brincat paints a vivid picture of Maltese women who, despite societal constraints, managed their affairs with remarkable autonomy and resilience. They were not mere background figures but were actively shaping their destinies, handling properties, securing their financial futures, and caring for their communities. As Malta stood on the brink of one of its most defining historical moments, these women quietly yet significantly influenced the course of their society. Grech’s study thus not only illuminates their stories but also broadens our understanding of the intricate societal dynamics in pre-siege Malta.

Access the full article here: https://www.academia.edu/38693497/Women_in_Pre_Siege_Malta_A_Study_Based_on_the_Acts_of_Notary_Matteo_De_Brincat_1564