ABSTRACT

Women in Medieval Europe explores the key areas of female experience in the later medieval period, from peasant women to Queens. It considers the women of the later Middle Ages in the context of their social relationships during a time of changing opportunities and activities, so that by 1500 the world of work was becoming increasingly restricted to women. The chapters are arranged thematically to show the varied roles and lives of women in and out of the home, covering topics such as marriage, religion, family and work.

For the second edition a new chapter draws together recent work on Jewish and Muslim women, as well as those from other ethnic groups, showing the wide ranging experiences of women from different backgrounds. Particular attention is paid to women at work in the towns, and specifically urban topics such as trade, crafts, healthcare and prostitution. The latest research on women, gender and masculinity has also been incorporated, along with updated further reading recommendations.

This fully revised new edition is a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the topic, perfect for all those studying women in Europe in the later Middle Ages.

chapter |14 pages

Introduction

Women, the Church and the law

chapter 1|14 pages

Upbringing

chapter 2|21 pages

Marriage

chapter 3|20 pages

Women and family

chapter 4|11 pages

The house and household

chapter 5|7 pages

Women and work in rural areas

chapter 6|33 pages

Townswomen and work

chapter 7|8 pages

Ethnic minorities

Jews, Muslims and slaves

chapter 8|25 pages

Women and power

Noblewomen and queens

chapter 9|21 pages

Laywomen and the arts

chapter 10|24 pages

Religious life

Nuns and nunneries

chapter 11|16 pages

Religious life

Beguines, penitents and recluses

chapter 12|19 pages

Mystics and saints

chapter 13|12 pages

Laywomen and charity

chapter 14|19 pages

Lay beliefs and religious practice

chapter 15|13 pages

Women, heresy and witchcraft

chapter |4 pages

Conclusion