Mary Hamilton

Joan Baez's rendition of 'Mary Hamilton' is a haunting ballad that delves into themes of betrayal, punishment, and societal judgment. The song tells the story of Mary Hamilton, one of the four Marys who served the Queen of Scots. The narrative unfolds with the revelation that Mary Hamilton has borne a child by the highest Stuart, a scandal that quickly spreads from the kitchen to the hall and ultimately to the Queen herself. This sets the stage for a tragic sequence of events, as Mary is forced to confess to casting her newborn child into the sea, a desperate act to rid herself of the evidence of her affair.

The song's lyrics are rich with historical and cultural references, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities faced by women in positions of servitude and the severe consequences of stepping outside societal norms. Mary Hamilton's journey to Glasgow, dressed in white rather than mourning colors, symbolizes her acceptance of her fate. The public's reaction, as well as the Queen's and the King's, highlights the societal condemnation and the lack of empathy for her plight. The ballad poignantly captures Mary's resignation to her fate, as she reflects on her life and the unexpected path it has taken, leading her to the gallows.

Joan Baez's folk style, characterized by her clear, emotive voice and simple acoustic accompaniment, adds a layer of poignancy to the narrative. The song's structure, with its repetitive calls for Mary to rise and face her fate, underscores the inevitability of her punishment. The final verses, where Mary Hamilton addresses the King and reflects on her service to the Queen, serve as a powerful indictment of the double standards and harsh judgments imposed on women. The ballad ends on a somber note, with the reminder that Mary's fate is sealed, leaving the listener to ponder the harsh realities of justice and societal expectations in historical contexts.