Family in Past Perspective: An Interdisciplinary Exploration of Familial Relationships Through Time

This volume takes a more comprehensive view of past familial dynamics than has been previously attempted, applying interdisciplinary perspectives to periods ranging from the Prehistoric to the Modern. It informs a wider understanding of the term family and the implications of family dynamics for children and their social networks in the past. Contributors drawn from across the humanities and social sciences present research addressing three primary themes: modes of kinship and familial structure, the convergence and divergence between the idealized image and realities of family life, and the provision of care within families. The papers in this volume provide new research to challenge assumptions and provoke new ways of thinking about past families as functionally adaptive, socially connected, and ideologically powerful units of society, just as they are in the present. A broad focus on the networks created by familial units also allows the experiences of historically underrepresented women and children to be highlighted in a way that underlines their interconnectedness with all members of past societies.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 234 pages
\n Publication date: 31 May 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate dynamics of past familial relationships, offering a broader perspective than previous attempts. By employing interdisciplinary approaches spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era, it sheds light on the evolving concept of the family and its profound implications for children and their social networks throughout history.
Contributors from diverse fields within the humanities and social sciences come together to present their research, focusing on three central themes: modes of kinship and familial structure, the convergence and divergence between idealized notions and the realities of family life, and the provision of care within families. These themes interrelate, as the concept and image of the family shape familial structures, ultimately determining the nature of care and protection provided to its members.
The papers included in this volume present fresh insights that challenge prevailing assumptions and invite new perspectives on past families as functional, socially connected, and ideologically powerful units of society, just as they are in the present. By examining the networks formed by familial units, the experiences of historically underrepresented women and children are brought to the forefront, highlighting their interconnectedness with all members of past societies.
The Family in Past Perspective serves as a vital bridge across disciplinary boundaries, making significant contributions to various fields such as bioarchaeology, women's history, and childhood studies. Its broad scope and multidisciplinary approach contribute to a deeper understanding of the past and its relevance to our contemporary world.

\n Weight: 402g\n
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781032015101\n \n