starring
Set in ninth-century Germany, this fascinating film examines the theory that there was once a woman on the throne of St Peter - later known as ' Pope Joan '. The story traces the extraordinary life of a young girl who, after her father's death, is raped by his companions. Fleeing to a nearby convent she becomes their librarian, the result of her literacy and intelligence. Once again fleeing from barbarians and rape, she adopts a boy's clothes and is later to become ' Brother John'. The rest is a strange version of history set in an undocumented bygone age.
Screenplay by JOHN BRILEY Produced by KURT UNGER
Directed by MICHAEL ANDERSON. Films: p 9 (First showing on British television)