Like many other denominations, seventeenth-century Quakers were keen to ensure that members married within their own religious community. In order to properly understand the ramification of such a policy, this book explores the early Quaker marriage approbation process and discipline as demonstrated through the works and marriage of the movement's leaders, George Fox and Margaret Fell. The book begins with an introduction that briefly summarises the historical context of the early Quaker movement, the ministry of Fox and Fell, and importance they laid upon the marriage approbation discipline. The remainder of the book is divided into three broad chapters. Chapter one examines the practical aspects of the early Quaker marriage approbation discipline, including a summary of seventeenth-century courtship and marriage practice, and an analysis of early Quaker Meeting Minutes. Chapter two then looks at the theological foundations of the marriage approbation process, and the Quaker emphasis on 'Good Order' and their desire to return to the primitive Christianity of the apostolic church. Chapter three examines the marriage between Fox and Fell, which they presented as a testimony of the union of Christ and his Church. Their married life is analysed through their correspondence to discover whether or not the marriage did indeed exemplify the spiritual gravity originally bestowed upon it by Fox, Fell and some in the Quaker community. Through this close investigation of Quaker marriage approbation, the book offers fascinating insights into early modern English society, attitudes to gender and the early Quakers' self-perception of themselves as the one and only True Church.

About the Author
A native Californian, Kristianna Polder studied American History at the University of California, Santa Cruz. After pursuing a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies, she moved to Scotland to complete her doctorate, with a specialization in Quaker history, at the University of Aberdeen. This is her first book.

Reviews

"Polder's work is clear, decisive, informative and convincing. It will become a reference and a standard for historiography from this point onward. It also provides keen insights into a topic and practice that continues to be addressed within contemporary society."- C. Wess Daniels, Quaker Studies

Book Information
ISBN 9781138379923
Author Kristianna Polder
Format Paperback
Page Count 304
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g