First published 1405
Christine de Pizan addresses women across the social spectrum of fifteenth century France. She speaks directly to royal courtiers and common prostitutes alike, offering practical wisdom for navigating medieval society. Christine instructs her readers on managing households, selecting appropriate dress, and preserving their reputations regardless of circumstance. Her counsel reveals the daily realities of court life and street existence in her era. She demonstrates how proper etiquette can reduce the vulnerability that comes with being a woman in a male-dominated world. Christine delivers her guidance with sharp wit, showing women how to secure their positions through careful attention to social rules. Her advice spans all ages and stations, creating a comprehensive guide for female survival and success in medieval France.
Genres: biography, historical-fiction, feminism, academic, cultural-studies
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: historical-perspective, social-commentary
Setting: France
Period: 15th Century
198 pages · Paperback · Penguin Classics