Maria is venerated around the world under many names: as the Holy Virgin and Mother of God, as the pure maid and Queen of Heaven. The outstanding significance of this female figure in Christianity cannot be explained solely through the Bible; the devoted piety of the believers must draw from other sources. In this book, the author explores the historical and religious background of Marian devotion: How did the dogmas about Mary originate? What is the connection between these dogmas and the oppression of women? What message does Mary have for us today? This makes it clear: a new perspective on Mary is possible and especially opens up access for women to their buried feminine spirituality. Dr. Christa Mulack lives as a feminist theologian, writer, and educator in Westphalia. She is one of the well-known advocates for a reinterpretation of the Christian tradition to give women and feminine values their rightful place within it.