Family Life in the Seventeenth Century: The Verneys of Claydon House

In the early seventeenth century, the Verney family experienced significant political and social challenges, which were reflected in their personal lives. Professor Miriam Slater's pioneering study, based on over 10,000 family letters and papers, explores how the family managed their estates and property, dealt with marriage and children, and navigated relationships within the clan. The family's misfortunes created a unique archive that allows the author to delve deep into their personal lives and create a collective portrait of a family in times of troubles. The study offers a detailed examination of family psychological dynamics, values, attitudes, and goals, and how they were influenced by wider social structures.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The profound issues and conflicts of the early seventeenth century unfolded not only on the stages of Court and Parliament but also on the battlefields and within the confines of the family. Originally published in 1984, this pioneering study by Professor Miriam Slater delves into the lives of the Verney family, based on an extensive collection of over 10,000 family letters and papers. Through her meticulous research, Slater offers a captivating portrayal of how a family of country gentry navigated the turbulent political and social landscape of the time.

The majority of the Verney family's energies were focused inward, revolving around marriage, children, relationships within the clan, estate management, and other familial concerns. They emerge as relatable individuals with their own passions and rivalries, compelled to navigate their lives through correspondence when the head of the family was exiled and a victim of political upheavals. However, their unfortunate circumstances have resulted in a unique archive that enables the author to delve into the very depths of their personal lives, creating an extraordinary collective portrait of a family amidst turmoil.

Professor Slater meticulously describes and analyzes the interactions between Verney family members, providing a detailed account of their beliefs and perspectives on marriage, from both the male and female viewpoints. She also delves into the roles of children and parents, the dynamics among adult siblings, and the significance of servants within the family. She offers a comprehensive examination of family psychological dynamics, exploring the values, attitudes, and goals that shaped individual behavior. Furthermore, Slater extends her analysis beyond individual quirks by linking the nature of personal interactions within the family to the broader social structures of the society, including laws of inheritance, patriarchal control, and the differential treatment of men.

Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Professor Slater sheds light on the complex web of relationships and dynamics that shaped the Verney family and their society during a pivotal period in history. This study not only contributes to our understanding of the past but also provides valuable insights into the enduring themes of family, politics, and social change.

Weight: 571g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032462738