Subject
Marriage -- History Books
Best books
Edward Westermarck
The history of human marriage
"The history of human marriage" by Edward Westermarck is a work published in 1891. This monumental anthropological study attempts a grand synthesis of marriage as a social institution across world history. Westermarck argues that marriage rests on biological foundations, evolving through human needs for companionship, economic cooperation, and child-rearing. The work also introduces what became known as the Westermarck effect—a theory explaining sexual desensitization among those raised in close proximity and the origins of incest taboos.
George Elliott Howard
A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 3 of 3
"A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 3 of 3" by George Elliott Howard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume appears to focus primarily on the evolution of matrimonial institutions, particularly the laws and practices related to marriage and divorce in England and the United States. The work includes a detailed examination of various matrimonial theories, cultural practices, and legislative frameworks surrounding marriage from historical perspectives. The opening of this volume delves into the complexities of divorce legislation in the United States, particularly from the late colonial era into the early 20th century. It highlights the gradual evolution of divorce laws, underscoring the shifts from legislative decrees to judicial processes, and addresses various grounds for divorce, including adultery, cruelty, and wilful desertion. The text offers insight into how these laws developed differently across states, reflecting changes in societal values and norms regarding marriage and family throughout this period.
George Elliott Howard
A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 2 of 3
"A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 2 of 3" by George Elliott Howard is a scholarly historical account written in the early 20th century. The work analyzes the development of matrimonial institutions primarily in England and the United States, examining the literature and theories surrounding primitive marriage and family structures. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of marital laws and customs through the ages. The opening of this volume delves into the history of separation and divorce under English and ecclesiastical law, detailing various historical influences on marriage practices. It outlines the early Christian doctrines concerning divorce, the perspectives of early church fathers, and legal transitions through Roman law, highlighting the complexities and evolving notions regarding the indissolubility of marriage. By emphasizing both the legal frameworks and societal attitudes, Howard sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how historical precedents shaped contemporary perceptions of marriage and divorce.
George Elliott Howard
A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 1 of 3
"A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 1 of 3" by George Elliott Howard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the evolution of marriage and family structures primarily in England and the United States, providing a thorough analysis of both primitive and contemporary matrimonial institutions. The work aims to shed light on the significance of marriage as a social institution and its impact on personal and societal development. The opening of the volume introduces the book's objectives, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the family and matrimonial institutions through a sociological lens. Howard discusses the contemporary relevance of marriage and family in light of evolving social conditions and the urgent need for research into these areas. He sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of various theories surrounding primitive marriage and family structures, indicating that the initial chapters will provide a systematic analysis of existing literature and theories on the topic. This introductory analysis positions the reader to appreciate the book's forthcoming detailed examination of marriage's historical complexities.
Northcote Whitridge Thomas
Kinship Organisations and Group Marriage in Australia
"Kinship Organisations and Group Marriage in Australia" by Northcote Whitridge Thomas is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book explores the intricate kinship structures and marriage practices among Australian Aboriginal societies, focusing specifically on totem kins, phratries, and the dynamics of group marriage. The text serves as a comprehensive examination intended to deepen understanding of the social fabric of these communities and encourage further research in this area of anthropology. The opening of the work establishes the author's intent to provide an in-depth survey of Australian kinship systems, distinguishing between various forms of social organisation based on birth rather than individual choice. Thomas discusses the persistence of the family system alongside tribal structures and highlights the complexity of kinship definitions, emphasizing the importance of both physiological and sociological factors in understanding these relationships. He outlines the significance of totem kins and the regulatory role they play in marriage prohibitions, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of kinship terms and their implications for social structures in Australia.
Angelo De Gubernatis
Storia comparata degli usi nuziali in Italia e presso gli altri popoli indo-europei Seconda edizione riveduta e ampliata dall'autore
"Storia comparata degli usi nuziali in Italia e presso gli altri popoli indo-europei" by Angelo De Gubernatis is a scholarly work focused on comparative cultural practices regarding marriage, written in the late 19th century. The book explores the various wedding customs in Italy, along with similarities and differences found among other Indo-European communities. It aims to illuminate the cultural significance of these practices and their historical roots. At the start of this extensive examination, the author reflects on the nature and purpose of marriage, suggesting that it is often viewed through a lens prioritized by societal norms and expectations. He discusses how various customs, from childhood games involving dolls to auspicious rituals for brides, serve to prepare young girls for their future roles and highlight the importance of fertility and family. The opening portion also touches on the universal themes of love and the series of traditions and superstitions that accompany the journey to matrimony, hinting at the cultural intermingling that shapes the practices in Italy compared to those in neighboring regions.
Andrew Lang
Social Origins and Primal Law
"Social Origins and Primal Law" by Andrew Lang and J. J. Atkinson is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work examines the origins of social structures, specifically focusing on the evolution of family and marriage customs among primitive societies, exploring concepts like totemism and exogamy. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of early human relationships and the complex laws governing marriage among various tribes. The opening portion of the work introduces the authors and their motivations, particularly highlighting Atkinson's theories on totemism and moral laws regarding family structures. Lang outlines Atkinson's background, detailing his observations of the customs of New Caledonia's natives and the anthropological debates surrounding family history. The introduction sets up a discourse on the historical evolution of social institutions, the significance of sexual jealousy in early human relationships, and the complexities of existing marriage laws among primitive tribes, all of which shape the upcoming analytical chapters.
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