Tying the Knot

The Marriage Act of 1836 allowed couples to marry in register offices and non-Anglican places of worship, and Rebecca Probert's book explores how the law has evolved and evaluates its impact on marriage choices. It suggests ways in which future legislators can avoid past pitfalls and enable couples to marry in ways that reflect their beliefs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 297 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Marriage Act 1836 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of modern marriage law, granting couples the freedom to marry in register offices and non-Anglican places of worship for the first time. In her comprehensive study, Rebecca Probert delves into an extensive array of primary sources, offering the first detailed examination of marriage legislation, social practices, and their intricate interplay from 1836 to the unforeseen challenges posed by the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. Through meticulous analysis, she unravels the historical trajectory of the law, exploring the parliamentary and societal debates that shaped its development. Probert also sheds light on the evolving choices of individuals when it comes to marriage, examining how these choices have changed over time and assessing the extent to which the law has facilitated or hindered the ability of couples to marry in accordance with their beliefs, whether religious or secular. In a time of individual autonomy and cultural diversity, Tying the Knot serves as a valuable guide for future legislators, highlighting potential strategies to avoid the pitfalls of the past and foster inclusive and respectful marriages for all.

ISBN-13: 9781108999830