Women in Medieval Europe 1200-1500

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.

Preface Preface to the Second EditionAbbreviationsIntroduction 1. Upbringing 2. Marriage 3. Women and Family 4. The House and Household 5. Women and Work in Rural Areas 6. Townswomen and Work 7. Ethnic Minorities: Jews, Muslims and Slaves 8. Women and Power: Noblewomen and Queens 9. Laywomen and the Arts10. Religious Life: Nuns and Nunneries 11. Religious Life: Beguines, Penitents and Recluses 12. Mystics and Saints 13. Laywomen and Charity 14. Lay Beliefs and Religious Practice 15. Women, Heresy and Witchcraft Conclusion Further Reading Notes Index

Jennifer Ward spent much of her career at Goldsmiths College, University of London, where she taught medieval and regional history. Her previous publications include: English Noblewomen in the Later Middle Ages (1992); Women of the English Nobility and Gentry 1066–1500 (1995) and Women in England in the Middle Ages (2006).