

She outlines the importance of women in the Quaker movement by focusing on the amazing exploits of a few pioneers.

But even for those without any history background, each chapter provides enough information to stand on its own for the average reader. Yet much of Fraser's book reveals how the 17th century was a time of change, even for women in the most static of institutions.įraser scrupulously includes a chronology of important events to help those readers unfamiliar with that period in British history. For example, women's prayers often included "Grandmother Eve," from whom all women were said to have inherited the original sin. Paul he advised wives to subjugate themselves to their husbands and for husbands to protect "the weaker vessel." In this case and many others, Fraser indicates how the established church reinforced the image of women as morally and physically inferior. The title, an ironic reference to a phrase in the King James Bible, is based on remarks made by St. In The Weaker Vessel, Fraser uses diaries, letters and popular ballads to recreate the condition of women in British society from the reign of Queen Elizabeth to that of Queen Anne. With this anecdote, Antonia Fraser explains the purpose of her latest book. WERE THERE any women in 17th century England?" asks a man as he disappears into his men's club.
