Living with humility took on social weight in the late Middle Ages, historian argues

The concept of humility was deeply ingrained in medieval society, according to historian Silvia Negri. This virtue was seen as one of the fundamental Christian values during the late Middle Ages, spanning from 1250 to 1500. Negri's research explores how these ideas about humility influenced societies, gender roles, and cultural boundaries during this period.

For Negri, humility is more than just a religious sentiment; she views it as a source of agency that shaped lives in complex ways for everyone. The ideal of humility was not confined to monasteries, but also played a role in the education of princes, the lifestyle of queens, and the dress of wealthy merchants and women. In medieval society, humble behavior was considered an important value that could enhance a person's standing within the political and social hierarchy.

The Glossa Ordinaria, a biblical commentary from the 12th century, provides insight into the understanding of humility at the time. It distinguishes between different levels of humility, from ordinary to exceptional, and illustrates how this virtue was applied even in the baptism of Jesus. In Siena, in the 14th century, the story of Biagia Cerretani and her husband, Giovanni Colombini, demonstrates the transformative power of humility.

When Biagia handed her husband a devotional book about the lives of holy women, he was inspired to donate his wealth to the city's hospital and adopt a life of radical poverty and humility. This radical transformation was particularly noteworthy because Giovanni was a respected member of Siena's highest social class. Women also played a significant role in transmitting knowledge about humility during the late Middle Ages.

Religious lay movements, such as the Beguines, emerged as a form of moral authority for ordinary people, providing guidance on recognizing and describing sinful behavior. Marie of Oignies, a pioneer of the Beguine movement, exemplified the practice of humility through her exemplary life of poverty, chastity, and humility. This form of expertise in humility gave women a degree of power within a strongly patriarchal social structure, challenging traditional gender roles and expectations.

The Madonna dell Umiltà, or Madonna of Humility, became a popular motif in art during the 14th and 15th centuries. This depiction of Mary emphasizes her modesty and motherhood, contrasting with the Maestà, which portrays Mary as the enthroned Queen of Heaven. By focusing on Mary's humility, this art form highlighted the importance of modesty and motherhood in the Christian narrative.