A History of the Wife Book Summary

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."

A History of the WifeBook binding

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Book Review of A History of the Wife

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.

Book Overview of A History of the Wife

About the Book Author

M

Marilyn Yalom

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.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Marilyn Yalom
Published
February 2002
Publisher
Harper Perennial
ISBN
0060931566
Language
English
Pages
464
Genres
HistoryWomenCultural History

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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

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