Gentleman's Mistress: Illegitimate Relationships and Children, 1450-1640

This study examines pre- and extra-marital relationships among the gentry and nobility of the north of England from 1450 to 1640, challenging assumptions about the extent to which such activities declined and the impact of Protestantism and other changes to the culture of the elite.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate dynamics of pre- and extra-marital relationships among the gentry and nobility of northern England from 1450 to 1640. It examines various aspects such as the practice of keeping mistresses, engaging in extramarital affairs, the birth of illegitimate children, and their subsequent fates. By challenging prevailing assumptions about the decline of such activities during this period, the study sheds light on the impact of Protestantism and other cultural transformations on the elite culture. This work constitutes a significant contribution to the literature on marriage, sexual relationships, family, kinship, and gender, appealing to an academic audience engaged in the fields of social and political history.

Introduction:
The study of pre- and extra-marital relationships among the gentry and nobility of northern England from 1450 to 1640 presents a rich tapestry of social and cultural dynamics. During this period, the elite class experienced profound changes in their attitudes towards marriage, sexuality, and family. This study aims to explore these relationships in greater detail, challenging prevailing assumptions about their decline and examining their impact on the culture of the elite.

The Practice of Keeping Mistresses:
One of the most notable aspects of pre- and extra-marital relationships during this period was the practice of keeping mistresses. While the concept of having a mistress was not unheard of before, it became increasingly common among the gentry and nobility. Mistresses were often young and attractive women who were sought after for their companionship, beauty, and sexual prowess. However, their status as mistresses was often considered inferior to that of wives, and they were often subjected to social stigma and discrimination.

Despite the social stigma, the practice of keeping mistresses continued to thrive among the elite. Many men believed that having a mistress provided them with a sense of freedom and pleasure that they could not experience in their marriages. They enjoyed the company of a woman who was not bound by the strict rules and expectations of marriage, and they could engage in sexual activities without the fear of consequences.

However, the practice of keeping mistresses also had its consequences. It often led to conflicts within marriages, as wives became jealous and resentful of their husbands' extramarital affairs. It also had a negative impact on the reputation of the elite, as it was seen as a sign of moral decay and immorality.

The Taking of Lovers:
In addition to the practice of keeping mistresses, the taking of lovers was also a common practice among the gentry and nobility. While extramarital affairs were not strictly forbidden, they were often frowned upon and considered a breach of social etiquette. However, some men were willing to risk the consequences of their actions in order to pursue their desires.

The taking of lovers was often characterized by secrecy and discretion. Men would meet with their lovers in private settings, such as inns or private homes, to avoid detection and scandal. They would engage in sexual activities without the fear of being caught, and they would often maintain a separate life from their wives and families.

The taking of lovers had its consequences as well. It often led to emotional and psychological distress for the wives and families involved. It also had a negative impact on the reputation of the elite, as it was seen as a sign of moral weakness and a lack of commitment to their marriages.

The Birth of Illegitimate Children:
Another significant aspect of pre- and extra-marital relationships during this period was the birth of illegitimate children. While the concept of illegitimacy was not new, it became more prevalent among the gentry and nobility as a result of the decline in religious observance and the rise of individualism.

Illegitimate children were often born out of wedlock, and their mothers were often stigmatized and ostracized by society. They were often denied access to inheritance, social status, and educational opportunities, and they were often forced to live in poverty and obscurity.

Despite the social stigma and discrimination faced by illegitimate children, some men were willing to accept them and raise them as their own. However, this was not always the case, and many illegitimate children were abandoned or left to fend for themselves.

The Fate of Illegitimate Children:
The fate of illegitimate children varied widely depending on the circumstances. Some illegitimate children were able to rise above their circumstances and achieve success and fame. For example, many illegitimate children of the Tudor dynasty became prominent figures in English history, such as Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. However, many illegitimate children were also forced to live a life of poverty and obscurity, and they were often subjected to discrimination and abuse.

In conclusion, this study explores pre- and extra-marital relationships among the gentry and nobility of northern England from 1450 to 1640. It examines various aspects such as the practice of keeping mistresses, engaging in extramarital affairs, the birth of illegitimate children, and their subsequent fates. By challenging prevailing assumptions about the decline of such activities during this period, the study sheds light on the impact of Protestantism and other cultural transformations on the elite culture. This work constitutes a significant contribution to the literature on marriage, sexual relationships, family, kinship, and gender, appealing to an academic audience engaged in the fields of social and political history.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526114068