Widowhood in Medieval and Early Modern Europe

This book brings together innovative research on widows and widowers in medieval and early modern Europe. The introductory chapter by the Editors explores the conditions and constructions of widowhood in the period. Thirteen essays then illuminate different dimensions of widowhood in England, Italy, France, Germany and Spain. A particular attraction of the volume is the attention given to widowers, and the comparisons made between the male and female experience of widowhood. It is an exciting reinterpretation of the subject which will do much to undo the traditional stereotype of the widow.