The Captive Wife: Conflicts of Housebound Mothers

by Hannah Gavron

Book by Gavron, Hannah

Genres: Sociology

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1966

Reviews

[Christian Schwoerke · Rating 3 out of 5]

A methodological sociological analysis (mostly interviews and surveys) of discontent amongst English housewives in the early 60s. This book was one of the first in England to rally women to their second-class status, through an articulation of the discontent of housewives who saw for themselves no identity other than what others granted them.

Gavron does not make any sweeping statements about women's roles in society, and she is strict in adhering to the parameters of her study, and for this reason the book deserves attention. It's always the case that a woman has had to do (and some say, still do) things twice as well as a man in order to be given credence—Gavron does this admirably.

[M.J. Greenwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Probably not the kind of book to read after a lockdown. This was written before women escaped from the kitchen front to the work front which often means doing double everything. It was put together as part of Gavron's studies. Sadly, she committed suicide. It was just achingly sad. Women still have a long way to go to get equality inside and outside the home. Gavron was at the forefront of exploring this and ahead of her time. It wasn't a good place. Now, at least, women are deemed to be more equal. That doesn't mean it happens.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating oral study/history of housewives in Britain right before second wave feminism really took off.

If you read this and are interested, read 'A Woman on the Edge of Time', a memoir by Jeremy Gavron, the author Hannah Gavron's son.

[Sarah Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mostly sadly forgotten key 1970s 2nd wave feminist text and one of the few to tackle motherhood.
Of its time but still highly relevant.
It's a quick read but has stated with me 20+ years since reading it.