This fascinating book explores the status of women in medieval England, both before and after the Norman Conquest. The author starts by contrasting the differences in status between Anglo/Danish or Saxon women with those who fell under the burden of the feudal system imposed by the Normans. She covers such subjects as marriage and childbirth, the rights and responsibilities of wives, separation and divorce, safety and security and the challenges of widowhood. She also examines such issues as virginity and chastity and the pressures placed on women by religious groups. At a time when women's rights were minimal, the author charts their struggles against the sexual politics of the era, its inequalities and its hypocrisies. She also examines the problems of the woman alone, from forced marriage to prostitution. The lives of ordinary women are the centre of attention, painting a fascinating picture of their courage and resilience against the background of their times.

About the Author
Lynda Telford writes historical articles and is Events and Projects Officer for the Yorkshire Branch of the Richard III society. She is a keen amateur archaeologist and the author of five books, including 'Women of Medieval England' and 'Women of the Vatican' for Amberley.


Book Information
ISBN 9781398109063
Author Lynda Telford
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Amberley Publishing
Publisher Amberley Publishing
Weight(grams) 329g