Studying Gender in Medieval Europe

Building on over a century of scholarly achievements and advances, this book addresses the core problem of how to incorporate gender in the study of the history of medieval Europe, and why it is important to do so. Providing a succinct overview of the field, Patricia Skinner guides us through debates and innovations in the study of gender in medieval history. Noting that the rise of gender studies has happened at a different pace in different regions, this unique text addresses the national variations of approach visible in US and European scholarly traditions.Packed with key authors, alternative approaches and suggestions for engaging with medieval sources, this text is an essential tool for students and scholars of medieval history at all levels.

This is a lucid and lively introduction to the study of women, masculinity and sexuality in Europe, c.500-1500. Skinner offers her own stimulating take on the important debates of recent decades, illuminates key concepts, and suggests source material that students might explore further., Skinner’s study of the history of writing on women, gender, and sexuality in the Middle Ages should be essential reading for all students of the medieval era, and is one that I will assign in classes again and again.

Patricia Skinner is Wellcome Research Fellow in History of Medicine at Swansea University, UK. She has published widely in the field of medieval history.