Women in Britain since 1900

(Paperback)

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Description

Combining evidence from primary research, with an emphasis on personal testimony, with work of specialist scholars in social, economic, political and cultural history, this study examines the changing meaning of femininity within the broad historical time periods of the 20th century. Each chronological chapter maps out developments for women at work, in the family, sexuality, education, feminism and other political movements. It does not seek to provide a triumphalist history of "great women", but instead offers an account of women's shifting identity within different social, economic and political contexts, divided by class, sexuality, ethnic background and other factors. Blending analysis with real life testimony, this is a woman-centred history of Britain from the suffragettes to the "Diana effect".

Reviews

'The book leads the reader in gently and sensitively to a large range of topics in the field of women's history. Sue Bruley has managed deftly to synthesize what is now a huge body of literature on the subject, and to make it accessible for a wide audience.' - Professor Jane Lewis, Wellcome Unit for the History of Medicine, Oxford University 'A valuable asset to any course on Twentieth century women's history.' - Annette Mayer, History Review 'A refreshing look at social history from a female perspective. The inclusion of personal testimony adds interest and authenticity.' - Melinda Barone, University College Salford 'Extremely readable and accessible account of women in modern British society. This will prove a very valuable teaching aid at both foundation and honours level. The chronological format is especially useful for tutorial purposes.' - Dr Roger Davidson, University of Edinburgh 'A much needed text which will help students place feminism into context throughout the twentieth century.' - Mrs. S. M. Johnson, University College Worcester

Author Bio

SUE BRULEY is Senior Lecturer in Historical Studies at the University of Portsmouth