Patricia Crawford explores how the study of gender can enhance our understanding of religious history, in this study of women and their apprehensions of God in early modern England. The book has three broad themes: the role of women in the religious upheaval in the period from the Reformation to the Restoration; the significance of religion to contemporary women, focusing on the range of practices and beliefs; and the role of gender in the period. The author argues that religion in the early modern period cannot be understood without a perception of the gendered nature of its beliefs, institutions and language. Contemporary religious ideology reinforced women's inferior position, but, as the author shows, it was possible for some women to transcend these beliefs and profoundly influence history.
Reviews

`... a book of great complexity and richness, at once both an effective general survey and a brilliant work of original scholarship on women and `radical religion' from 1640 to 1660. ... it is a treasure trove for teachers and scholars, and it deserves to be read widely.' - Eric Josef Carlson EHR

`Will certainly generate debate on the condition of women in the early modern period.' - History Today

`The implications of the author's argument are considerable.' - THES

Book Information
ISBN 9780415016964
Author Patricia Crawford
Format Hardback
Page Count 280
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 720g