The Family, Sex and Marriage in England 1500-1800 by Lawrence Stone

This scholarly work provides an in-depth analysis of the transformation of family life, sexual mores, and marital structures in England from the 16th to the 18th century. It examines the shift from the medieval extended family to the closed domesticated nuclear family, exploring how economic, social, legal, and cultural changes influenced personal relationships and societal norms. The book delves into the roles of love, sex, and marriage during this period, revealing how the evolution of these concepts was intertwined with broader historical developments such as the Protestant Reformation, the rise of individualism, and the changing economic landscape. Through meticulous research, the text presents a comprehensive view of how private life was redefined over three centuries, reflecting the complex interplay between tradition and change in early modern England.

The 2601st greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 150

Since this book was first published in 1977, there is a penalty of 4.8%. The age adjusted score is 142.8.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.