A Cultural History of Marriage in the Age of Enlightenment

During the Age of Enlightenment, a few people revolutionized marriage by marrying for love rather than religious or family interests. This shift from a sacred state to a secular contract based on mutual love and affection changed the way people viewed marriage and made love the cornerstone of modern marriages.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The concept of marriage undergoing a revolution was a prevailing notion during the so-called Age of Enlightenment. This transformative shift occurred as a result of individuals marrying for personal reasons, such as love, rather than solely for religious, familial, political, or financial purposes. By the late eighteenth century, a growing number of people embraced this new perspective on matrimony, viewing it as a secular contract between two individuals based on their mutual affection and love.

It is worth noting that the notion of love being the cornerstone of modern marriage is a widely accepted belief today. However, this was not always the case. Before the eighteenth century, marriages were often arranged for practical reasons, such as consolidating families' wealth or advancing political interests. It was only a century later that the idea of mutual love and attraction becoming essential for a successful marriage gained widespread acceptance.

A Cultural History of Marriage in the Age of Enlightenment delves into the various factors that contributed to this cultural transformation. The book explores topics such as courtship and ritual, religion, state and law, kinship and social networks, the family economy, love and sex, the breaking of vows, and representations of marriage. Through these essays, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex web of factors that shaped matrimony during this period and the enduring impact that these changes have had on the institution of marriage today.

In conclusion, the idea of marriage undergoing a revolution during the Age of Enlightenment was a significant shift in cultural norms and values. By marrying for personal reasons rather than solely for external factors, individuals paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable marriage institution. The legacy of this transformation continues to shape modern marriage, emphasizing the importance of love, respect, and partnership in building lasting and fulfilling relationships.

Weight: 370g
Dimension: 169 x 245 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350355644