In 'A History of the Wife', Marilyn Yalom unveils the often-overlooked narratives of women throughout history, exploring the evolution of marriage and the roles of wives in society. Through a blend of historical analysis and personal anecdotes, Yalom reveals the complex dynamics between love, obligation, and identity. Readers journey through various cultures and time periods, witnessing the shifting expectations placed on wives. This illuminating work challenges conventional views on marriage, inviting reflection on contemporary relationships. A must-read for anyone curious about how the past influences the present in the realm of love and partnership.
By Marilyn Yalom
Published: 2002
"The history of the wife reflects the evolution of women's identities, revealing that love, loyalty, and ambition can coexist in the tangled narrative of marriage."
How did marriage, considered a religious duty in medieval Europe, become a venue for personal fulfillment in contemporary America? How did the notion of romantic love, a novelty in the Middle Ages, become a prerequisite for marriage today? And, if the original purpose of marriage was procreation, what exactly is the purpose of marriage for women now? Combining "a scholar's rigor and a storyteller's craft"(San Jose Mercury News), distinguished cultural historian Marilyn Yalom charts the evolution of marriage in the Judeo Christian world through the centuries and shows how radically our ideas about marriage have changed. For any woman who is, has been, or ever will be married, this intellectually vigorous and gripping historical analysis of marriage sheds new light on an institution most people take for granted, and that may, in fact, be experiencing its most convulsive upheaval since the Reformation.
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Janet Mock is an acclaimed writer, director, and transgender rights activist known for her groundbreaking memoir, "Redefining Realness," which became a New York Times bestseller. She followed this with "Surpassing Certainty," further cementing her voice in contemporary literature. Mock's work has not only highlighted her own journey but also brought vital visibility to the transgender community. In addition to her literary achievements, she has made significant contributions to television, notably as a writer, director, and producer for the series "Pose." Through her multifaceted career, Mock has become a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and an influential figure in modern storytelling.
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
Reid Hoffman is an influential American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author, best known as the co-founder of LinkedIn, the professional networking platform that transformed online professional interactions. Hoffman has significantly impacted the business world through his investments in notable tech companies like Airbnb, Facebook, and Zynga. As an author, he has co-written several acclaimed books, including "The Start-Up of You" and "Blitzscaling," which provide strategic insights into career development and business growth. His works are celebrated for their practical advice and have become essential reading for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Hoffman's contributions extend beyond his literary efforts, as he remains a prominent figure in Silicon Valley, shaping the future of technology and innovation.
Daniel Ek is a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming platform. Ek revolutionized the music industry by offering a legal, user-friendly alternative to piracy, and Spotify has since become the dominant player in the streaming market. Under his leadership, Spotify has expanded globally, offering access to millions of songs and podcasts while reshaping how artists distribute their work. Ek is known for his forward-thinking approach to technology and his commitment to evolving Spotify’s platform for both users and creators. He continues to lead Spotify as it explores new innovations in audio entertainment.
Showing 8 of 23 related collections
“The history of the wife reflects the evolution of women's identities, revealing that love, loyalty, and ambition can coexist in the tangled narrative of marriage.”
A History of the Wife
By Marilyn Yalom
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Marilyn Yalom was a distinguished American author, historian, and a leading expert on the role of women in society. Born in 1932, she is renowned for her contributions to feminist literature and her in-depth exploration of women's issues through both scholarly research and engaging narratives. Notable works by Yalom include 'A History of Women in America' and 'The Birth of the Chess Queen,' where she skillfully intertwines historical analysis with personal anecdotes, creating a compelling narrative style that is both informative and accessible. Her writing often reflects a keen insight into gender dynamics, culture, and the evolving position of women throughout history.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Lessons of History," Will and Ariel Durant distill the sweeping narrative of human civilization into profound insights that span cultures and epochs. They explore the recurring themes of war, economics, religion, and human nature that shape our collective journey. With razor-sharp clarity, the Durants argue that the past holds invaluable lessons that can guide our present and future decisions. What patterns emerge when we closely examine the ebb and flow of societies? This thought-provoking work invites readers to reflect on the intricacies of humanity's story and consider how we might navigate the path ahead.
In "Women Who Run with the Wolves," Clarissa Pinkola Estés illuminates the wild woman archetype, blending folklore and psychology to empower women to reclaim their innate instincts and untamed spirit. Through a rich tapestry of myths and stories, she unpacks the transformative power of the feminine psyche and urges women to honor their intuition and creativity. Each tale not only reveals hidden truths about the feminine experience but also serves as a catalyst for healing and self-discovery. Estés invites readers to awaken their inner wildness, challenging societal norms that seek to confine them. Dive into this enchanting exploration and rediscover the strength and wisdom that lies within.
In a bleak, post-apocalyptic world, a father and his young son navigate a barren landscape filled with danger and despair. As they struggle to survive against the harsh elements and lurking threats, their bond is tested, and the father clings to hope. The boy embodies innocence and a longing for the remnants of civilization, while the father wrestles with the darkness of their reality. This haunting tale explores the themes of love, survival, and morality in the face of overwhelming adversity. Will they reach their destination or succumb to the desolation that surrounds them?
In 'Galápagos', Paul D. Stewart takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the enchanted archipelago that inspired Darwin. The narrative blends adventure with vivid descriptions of unique wildlife and stunning landscapes, immersing the reader in the natural wonders of the islands. As the characters navigate the challenges of exploration and survival, they uncover the profound connections between evolution and environment. With themes of adaptation and the unpredictability of life, the story invites reflection on the delicate balance of nature. Discover the secrets of the Galápagos and its impact on the world of science!
In 'Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)', Carol Tavris and Elliot Aronson explore the psychological mechanisms of self-justification and the often-unconscious ways we avoid admitting our wrongs. With compelling examples from history, psychology, and personal anecdotes, the authors reveal why people, from individuals to large organizations, refuse to accept accountability. This thought-provoking book challenges readers to confront their own biases and the cognitive dissonance that influences decision-making. Will you choose to embrace the discomfort of acknowledging your mistakes? Dive into this enlightening read and discover the profound impact of accountability on personal growth and relationships.
In 'Women Who Love Too Much', Robin Norwood explores the deep emotional struggles of women who find themselves in unhealthy, obsessive relationships. Through compelling anecdotes and insightful analysis, she reveals the patterns that lead these women to prioritize love over self-worth. Norwood provides a roadmap for healing, encouraging readers to reclaim their identity and understand the roots of their behaviors. This book is not just a guide; it's a revelation for those caught in the cycle of loving too much. Are you ready to break free and rediscover the love you truly deserve?
In 'Lying', Sam Harris delves into the often-misunderstood facet of honesty and deception, arguing that lying is not only morally wrong but also detrimental to personal relationships and society as a whole. He presents compelling scenarios that challenge our justifications for dishonest behavior, demonstrating how lies erode trust and lead to unforeseen consequences. Harris explores the psychological implications of lying, revealing how it can trap both the liar and the deceived in a cycle of deceit. With a blend of philosophy and neuroscience, he encourages readers to adopt radical honesty in their lives. Will embracing this vulnerable path unlock deeper connections and authenticity, or leave us exposed in a world built on fibs?
In 'The Spy and the Traitor,' Ben Macintyre delves into the riveting true story of Oleg Gordievsky, a double agent whose daring actions turned the tide of the Cold War. As a high-ranking officer in the KGB, Gordievsky secretly collaborated with British intelligence, risking his life to expose Soviet secrets. The book combines thrilling espionage with deep psychological insight, revealing the moral complexities faced by spies. With masterful storytelling, Macintyre captures the tension of a world on the brink of nuclear war and the ultimate quest for freedom. Will Gordievsky's bravery save the West or seal his fate?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
