The role of women in the early modern period
I can describe the ways in which early modern Britain was a patriarchal society.
The role of women in the early modern period
I can describe the ways in which early modern Britain was a patriarchal society.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Reformation did not have a significant impact on attitudes towards women.
- Early modern Britain remained a patriarchal society.
- Work for the majority of women centred on the home and was combined with childcare.
- Opportunities for women to receive an education were limited and linked to social class.
- Husbands in the early modern period had a huge amount of power over their wives.
Keywords
Patriarchal - patriarchal relates to a society that is controlled by men
Aristocratic - aristocratic refers to a powerful and wealthy group in society who own land and have titles
Common misconception
The existence of female rulers like Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, meant that women in early modern Britain had significantly more power than in the medieval period.
It was extremely rare for women to wield power during this period. Early modern Britain was a patriarchal society in which society was controlled by men and the vast majority of women were excluded from all positions of power and influence.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
- Depiction or discussion of sexual violence
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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