Lucy Hutchinson and the English Revolution: Gender, Genre, and History Writing

In Lucy Hutchinson and the English Revolution, Claire Gheeraert-Graffeuille challenges the assumption that early modern women could not write the history of wars and argues that Lucy Hutchinson was a historian of the English Revolution, ranking alongside Richard Baxter, Edmund Ludlow, and Edward Hyde.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In her captivating book, "Lucy Hutchinson and the English Revolution," Claire Gheeraert-Graffeuille delves into the historical writings of Lucy Hutchinson, encompassing her renowned Memoirs of the Life of Colonel Hutchinson. These memoirs, composed between 1664 and 1667, were initially published in 1806 but experienced a decline in popularity during the twentieth century. However, their significance was re-discovered in the late 1980s by historians and literary scholars who were intrigued by women's writing, the emerging culture of republicanism, and dissent. By examining the Memoirs through the lens of history and form, Gheeraert-Graffeuille challenges the prevailing notion that early modern women were incapable of writing the history of wars, a field traditionally considered masculine.

Through her meticulous research, Gheeraert-Graffeuille reveals that Lucy Hutchinson, a reader of ancient history and a skilled Latinist, possessed the remarkable distinction of being a historian of the English Revolution. She stands alongside notable figures such as Richard Baxter, Edmund Ludlow, and Edward Hyde in the annals of English historical writing.

The Memoirs of the Life of Colonel Hutchinson offer a unique perspective on the events of the English Revolution, providing insights into the lives of ordinary people caught up in the tumultuous times. Hutchinson's writing is characterized by her personal experiences and observations, offering a human touch to the historical narrative.

Gheeraert-Graffeuille's book not only sheds light on the contributions of Lucy Hutchinson to historical writing but also challenges the broader societal norms and gender stereotypes of the time. By demonstrating that women could be historians of equal merit to their male counterparts, she contributes to the ongoing re-evaluation of women's historical roles and achievements.

In conclusion, "Lucy Hutchinson and the English Revolution" is a groundbreaking work that restores the reputation of Lucy Hutchinson as a significant historical figure. Claire Gheeraert-Graffeuille's meticulous research and insightful analysis provide a fresh perspective on the English Revolution, challenging gender stereotypes and highlighting the contributions of women to historical writing. This book is a valuable addition to the literature on early modern history and will inspire future scholars and researchers.

Weight: 714g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192857538