The Weaker Vessel: Woman's Lot in Seventeenth-Century England

Just how weak were the women of the Civil War era? What could they expect beyond marriage and childbirth in an age where infant and maternal mortality was frequent and contraception unknown? Did anyone marry for love? Could a woman divorce? What rights had the unmarried? What expectations the widowed? An expert on the period, Antonia Fraser brings to life the many and various women she has encountered in her considerable research: governesses, milkmaids, fishwives, nuns, defenders of castles, courtesans, countesses, witches and widows. 'Consistently interesting, funny, touching and thought-provoking to read: a fresh angle of vision has given her a fresh view of the private life of the seventeenth century, and she conveys it with skill.' Spectator 'A work of great technical assurance...she writes with a consistent warmth, wit, modesty, conviction on a subject which will be a revelation to almost anyone' The Times 'A distinguished and graceful book, packed with interesting information' Observer Women In 17th-century England--heiresses And Dairymaids, Holy Women And Prostitutes, Criminals And Educators, Widows And Witches, Midwives And Mothers, Heroines, Courtesans, Prophetesses, Businesswomen, Ladies Of The Court, And That New Breed, The Actress. Prologue: How Weak? -- Pt. 1: As It Was--this Blessed Knot. A Wife Sought For Wealth ; Affection Is False ; Crown To Her Husband ; The Pain And The Peril ; Are You Widows? ; Poor And Atrabilious ; Unlearned Virgins ; Living Under Obedience --pt. 2: With The War--stronger Grown. Courage Above Her Sex ; His Comrade ; A Soliciting Temper ; Sharing In The Commonwealth ; When Women Preach -- Pt. 3: Afterwards--a Continual Labour. Worldly Goods ; Divorce From Bed And Board ; Benefiting By Accomplishments ; Petticoat-authors ; Helping In God's Vineyard ; The Delight Of Business ; Wanton And Free ; Actress As Honey-pot ; The Modest Midwife -- Epilogue: How Strong? Antonia Fraser. Includes Index. Bibliography: P. 501-518.