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.
List of tables.Editor's Preface.Preface.Introduction.Chapter 1 Marriage.Chapter 2 The widow and her lands. Chapter 3 The household.Chapter 4 Lifestyle and travel.Chapter 5 Children, Kinsman and friends.Chapter 6 Estates and revenue.Chapter 7 Lordship and patronage.Chapter 8 Religious practice.Conclusion. Appendix: Glossary of terms.General bibliography.Index.