This chapter concludes the review of the literature by drawing together a range of theories and perspectives highlighted in the previous two chapters, in order to evaluate what might be helpful in seeking to better understand the experience of later life widowhood. I argue the limitations of some of these perspectives, suggesting that their restrictive nature has served to reinforce a problem model and thus perpetuate the negative mythology of widowhood. I also acknowledge the insights and helpfulness of other perspectives. Arising from this, and in keeping with the thrust of the discussion in the previous two chapters, I then go on to suggest a re-conceptualization of later life widowhood which, by drawing on a life course perspective situated within gerontology and feminism, takes into account the totality of older women's lives.