A History of Marriage

A History of Marriage traces the evolution of matrimony across cultures and centuries, with a focus on North American traditions and practices. The book examines courtship rituals, wedding ceremonies, child-rearing customs, and the complex dynamics of marital relationships throughout different historical periods. Abbott draws from extensive research and personal accounts to document how marriage has adapted to changing social norms, religious beliefs, and economic conditions. The text covers diverse topics including age differences between spouses, unconventional partnerships like Boston marriages, and the impact of historical events on family structures. Each chapter presents specific case studies and historical examples that illustrate broader trends in marital customs. From Martin Luther's marriage to a former nun, to the disruption of Native American families by residential schools, the book chronicles both celebrated and difficult aspects of matrimonial history. The work stands as a comprehensive examination of how marriage has functioned as both a private bond and a public institution, reflecting deeper patterns of social change and human relationships throughout history.

Readers found the book comprehensive in scope but repetitive in parts. Many noted its accessible writing style and thorough research spanning different cultures and time periods. Positive reviews highlighted: - Clear organization by themes rather than strict chronology - Inclusion of LGBTQ perspectives and non-Western marriage traditions - Balance of historical facts with engaging personal stories - Extensive citations and bibliography Common criticisms: - Too much focus on Western/European marriage customs - Some sections felt padded with unnecessary details - Limited coverage of Asian and African marriage traditions - Writing occasionally strays into academic jargon Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (486 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (52 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (24 ratings) One reader noted: "Informative but dry in places - reads like a textbook rather than narrative non-fiction." Another wrote: "Strong on research but could have included more diverse cultural perspectives."

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Till Death Do Us Part: A History of Canadian Marriage by Serge Gagnon Documents the development of marriage customs in Canada from colonial times through the twentieth century, with focus on religious and legal influences.

🔹 Marriage was primarily an economic arrangement in North America until the late 18th century, with love being considered a pleasant bonus rather than a prerequisite. 🔹 Elizabeth Abbott serves as the Dean of Women at Trinity College, University of Toronto, and has authored several other acclaimed social histories including "A History of Celibacy" and "A History of Mistresses." 🔹 The legal concept of marital rape wasn't recognized in all U.S. states until 1993, making it one of the last Western nations to fully criminalize the practice. 🔹 The white wedding dress tradition only became popular after Queen Victoria wore one for her marriage to Prince Albert in 1840; before that, brides simply wore their best dress in any color. 🔹 Same-sex marriage ceremonies were performed by various Native American tribes centuries before the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, with some tribes recognizing up to four genders.