The Secret Lives of Single Medieval Women: True Stories of Nuns, Maidens, and Not-So-Merry Widows Who Made Their Own Way in the Medieval World

Summary

For centuries, medieval history books have told the stories of noble queens, dutiful housewives, and cloistered nuns—but what about the single women who lived, worked, and thrived in medieval Europe? The Secret Lives of Single Medieval Women reveals the overlooked yet fascinating lives of middle age women who did not fit the conventional mold. From unmarried tradeswomen and widows to vowesses and nuns, these women carved their own paths in a world that often sought to define them by their marital status.

While medieval and Middle Ages society dictated that a woman's worth was tied to marriage and family, countless single women built lives of resilience and ingenuity. Some ran successful businesses, others devoted themselves to education or faith, and many simply found ways to survive within a rigid social structure. This book sheds light on their stories, proving that history is far richer and more complex than the narratives we've been told.

Whether running businesses, navigating religious life, or simply surviving societal expectations, these women played a crucial role in shaping medieval society. Rich with historical records, poetry, and legal documents, this medieval history book brings to light the personal stories of those often left out of traditional narratives.