Synopses & Reviews
This book presents a concise and accessible introduction to the various issues and debates surrounding women and their position in medieval society. Professor Mate examines the role women played in the economy, clarifies legal provisions for women and highlights the importance of class, as well as gender, in determining marriage and opportunities.
Review
"crisp, incisive prose makes a wealth of information intelligible....Virtually every aspect of a medieval Englishwoman's life is touched on in the book....this is a well-written, well-researched introduction." Albion"[Mate] looks at the ways in which historians have seen the position of women in medieval society from the beginning of the Anglo-Saxon period to the end of the 15th century." Book News"Mate's book contains much useful information and makes a compelling argument..." Comitatus
Synopsis
Examination of the evidence and major issues and debates deciding the position of women in medieval society.
Synopsis
Written primarly for undergraduates, this book judiciously weighs the evidence for and against the various theories relating to the position of women at different times in the medieval period. It examines the key issues affecting women in the medieval period and differs from other books in this area with its emphasis on women's contribution to the economy. At the same time, Professor Mate explains and clarifies the legal provisions for women, and highlights the importance of class, as well as gender, in determining marriage and opportunities for power and influence.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction; 2. Early medieval society 600-1250; 3. The late Middle Ages 1250-1350; Conclusion.