Stereotypes and Stereotyping in Early Modern England: Puritans, Papists and Projectors

Early modern stereotypes were once studied as evidence of popular belief, but this view overlooks the contested nature of stereotyping and its impact on power negotiations in various spheres of life. This volume combines case studies and social psychology and sociology to explore how stereotypes and their mobilization shaped these negotiations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Stereotypes have long been studied as evidence of popular belief, often steeped in prejudices and widely accepted assumptions. However, a more comprehensive understanding of stereotypes and stereotyping in early modern England extends beyond this simplistic view. This volume takes a fresh approach by examining stereotyping as contested processes. By drawing on recent insights from social psychology and sociology, the book brings together a collection of early modern case studies to explore how stereotypes and their mobilization shaped diverse power negotiations across various spheres of life, including politics, religion, economy, and knowledge production.

In the early modern period, stereotypes played a significant role in shaping public perception and understanding. These perceptions were often based on limited information and were influenced by a range of factors, including social class, gender, religion, and ethnicity. Stereotypes were used to simplify complex social relationships and to make judgments about individuals and groups based on limited evidence.

One of the most prominent stereotypes in early modern England was the idea that women were inferior to men. This stereotype was deeply embedded in societal norms and was reinforced by a range of cultural and religious beliefs. Women were often excluded from political power, education, and employment opportunities, and were perceived as being responsible for the moral and sexual behavior of men.

Another stereotype was the idea that Jews were responsible for economic inequality and social unrest. This stereotype was rooted in historical anti-Semitism and was used to justify discrimination and persecution against Jews. Jews were often denied access to certain professions, such as banking and law, and were subjected to forced conversion and expulsion from England.

Stereotypes were also used to justify colonialism and imperialism. The idea that non-European cultures were inferior to European cultures was used to justify the exploitation and colonization of other nations. This stereotype was reinforced by a range of scientific and philosophical beliefs, including the belief in the superiority of the white race.

Despite these negative effects, stereotypes were not static and were subject to change over time. The rise of the Enlightenment and the development of new ideas about human rights and equality challenged many of the traditional stereotypes and led to a greater understanding of the diversity of human experience.

In conclusion, stereotypes and stereotyping in early modern England were complex and multifaceted processes that were shaped by a range of social, cultural, and political factors. While these stereotypes had negative effects on individuals and groups, they were also subject to change over time and were ultimately challenged by the rise of the Enlightenment and the development of new ideas about human rights and equality.

Weight: 694g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526119131