Cover; Half Title; Title Page; Copyright Page; Table of Contents; List of Tables; Editor's Preface; Preface; Dedication; Introduction; CHAPTER 1 Marriage; CHAPTER 2 The Widow and her Lands; CHAPTER 3 The Household; CHAPTER 4 Lifestyle and Travel; CHAPTER 5 Children, Kinsmen and Friends; CHAPTER 6 Estates and Revenue; CHAPTER 7 Lordship and Patronage; CHAPTER 8 Religious Practice; Conclusion; Appendix: Glossary of Terms; General Bibliography; Index
Summary
This vivid and pioneering study illuminates the different roles played in late medieval society by noblewomen - the most substantial group of women to survive as individuals in medieval documents. They emerge (despite limited political opportunities) as figures of consequence themselves in a landowning society through estate management in their husbands' frequent absences, and through hospitality, patronage and affinity
