Information on Ursula Bethell

Ursula Bethell, a notable figure in New Zealand's literary and social landscape, had a profound relationship with her homeland and with the people she loved, particularly Henrietta Dorothea 'Effie' Pollen. Born in Surrey, England, in 1874, Bethell was the first child of Isabel and Richard Bethell. She moved to New Zealand as a child, where she was educated and later engaged in social work. Bethell's early life was marked by education and travel, including studying in Geneva and Dresden, and engaging in social work in London with the Grey Ladies, an Anglican community, where she met Effie Pollen in 1905.

Bethell and Pollen's relationship, lasting over 30 years, played a central role in Bethell's life and work. They lived together first in London and then in Christchurch, New Zealand, from 1919 in a house called Rise Cottage. Their domestic life in the affluent suburb of Cashmere was idyllic and protected by Bethell's wealth and social standing. The intensity of their relationship is reflected in Bethell's poetry, which often depicted their home, garden, and life together. Bethell was deeply affected by Pollen's death in 1934, experiencing profound grief and writing memorial poems in her honor. Their relationship, though sometimes described as platonic or maternal, exhibited elements that suggest a deeper, possibly romantic and passionate connection.

Bethell's life was not only defined by her relationship with Pollen but also by her contributions to New Zealand poetry and her advocacy for social causes. She is considered a pioneer of modern New Zealand poetry, blending her English origins with her experiences in New Zealand. Her poetry often drew from the Canterbury landscape and reflected her meditative religious faith. After Pollen's death, Bethell published more poetry and continued her social work, including supporting the Anglican church and mentoring young people. She developed a significant friendship with Kathleen Taylor later in life. Bethell passed away in 1945, leaving a legacy as a vital literary figure who helped shape New Zealand's poetic voice.

Bethell's contribution to LGBTI history in New Zealand is nuanced. While her relationship with Pollen was integral to her life and work, the exact nature of their relationship remains a matter of interpretation. Bethell herself described their relationship as "prevailingly maternal," and due to the social context of her time, it's challenging to conclusively define their relationship. Nevertheless, the depth and significance of their bond are undeniable and have been the subject of scholarly exploration, contributing to the understanding of LGBTI history in New Zealand.

Bethell's story is a compelling example of how personal relationships and societal contexts intersect to shape an individual's life and legacy, particularly in the realm of LGBTI history. Her life and work offer insights into the complexities and nuances of relationships between women in early 20th-century New Zealand, and her poetry remains a testament to her profound connection to both the landscape and the people she loved.

Further information can be found at:

• teara.govt.nz
• wikipedia.org