Meanings of Manhood in Early Modern England

by Alexandra Shepard

This path-breaking study explores the diverse and varied meanings of manhood in early modern England and their complex, and often contested, relationship with patriarchal principles. Using social, political and medical commentary, alongside evidence of social practice derived from court records, Dr Shepard argues that patriarchal ideology contained numerous contradictions, and that, while males were its primary beneficiaries, it was undermined and opposed by men as well as women.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

304 pages, Paperback

First published August 14, 2003

Reviews

[Katheryn Thompson]

Inevitably, there was much in Meanings of Manhood in Early Modern England that was familiar to me - given how much time has passed since it was published, and how long I have spent reading and thinking about the subject already - but I found this one an enlightening and engaging read.

[Abbie Fitton]

any books for uni i’m not going to review on here i’m just making a note of the books i’ve read :) (but this was acc a very interesting read!)

[Matt]

A fantastic book that's helped me reconsider my whole social framework.