From Library Journal Gutwirth (professor emeritus, French, West Chester Univ.) explores the ambiguous, generally powerless existence of 18th-century French women and the roles male contemporaries assigned them. She marshals her arguments to greatest purpose when pondering the French Revolution; her discussion of contrasting depictions of Marie Antoinette as a naive consort and a demonized symbol constitutes a highlight. While these ruminations draw upon 200 years of distinguished historiography, sections based on original ...
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From Library Journal Gutwirth (professor emeritus, French, West Chester Univ.) explores the ambiguous, generally powerless existence of 18th-century French women and the roles male contemporaries assigned them. She marshals her arguments to greatest purpose when pondering the French Revolution; her discussion of contrasting depictions of Marie Antoinette as a naive consort and a demonized symbol constitutes a highlight. While these ruminations draw upon 200 years of distinguished historiography, sections based on original research, such as the half of the book devoted to salon/Enlightenment culture, are often turgid and tentative. Gutwirth's clumsy syntax is leavened by sporadic phrases of simple elegance, but readers with less than a professional interest in gender studies or 18th-century French society will shun her pedantry. Libraries supporting scholars in these areas, however, will need to own it for her frequent insights.
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Seller's Description:
This is an ex-library book and may have the usual library/used-book markings inside. This book has hardback covers. In good all round condition. Dust jacket in good condition. Please note the Image in this listing is a stock photo and may not match the covers of the actual item, 1300grams, ISBN: 9780813517872.