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The History of the Wife

464 pages, 2002

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999 books
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Description

A History of the Wife weaves a complex tapestry as it outlines the roles, customs, and cultural position of women in Western marriage. The work is engaging, filled with interesting anecdotes and stories, and is an incredibly lively read on a fascinating subject much in need of a closer look. 

In breadth, the book ranges from biblical times to the present, and in sheer scale, it attempts to present a unified series of images of the Western wife over the course of some 2,000 years. In doing so, Professor Yalom has presented us with a fascinating grid, well-conceived and wonderfully written, with which we can begin to examine this cultural phenomenon.

 One of the main strengths of the work is its method: Yalom draws heavily on diaries, newspapers, journals, and personal letters, and she interweaves these with citations from the laws, general customs of the times, religious rites, and civic procedure.  

Evolution of the Role of Wives

In 'The History of the Wife', Marilyn Yalom takes us on a journey through time, exploring how the role of wives has evolved over centuries. From being property in ancient times to becoming equal partners today, the book gives a comprehensive look into the changing dynamics of marriage.

Impact of Religion and Culture

Yalom digs into how religion and culture have shaped the role of wives. She shows how different societies and religions have influenced the expectations and responsibilities of wives, and how these have changed over time.

Women's Rights and Feminism

The book also explores the impact of the women's rights movement and feminism on the role of wives. Yalom shows how these movements have helped redefine marriage and the role of wives, leading to more equality and freedom for women.

Personal Stories and Experiences

What makes 'The History of the Wife' unique is that Yalom doesn't just rely on historical facts and research. She also shares personal stories and experiences of wives from different eras, making the book more relatable and engaging.

Understanding Modern Marriage

By looking into the past, Yalom helps us understand the present. The book provides insights into modern marriage and the role of wives, helping us see how far we've come and what challenges still lie ahead.

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