Title
The Good Wife's Guide (Le Mnagier de Paris): A Medieval Household Book,Used
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In the closing years of the fourteenth century, an anonymous French writer compiled a book addressed to a fifteenyearold bride, narrated in the voice of her husband, a wealthy, aging Parisian. The book was designed to teach this young wife the moral attributes, duties, and conduct befitting a woman of her station in society, in the almost certain event of her widowhood and subsequent remarriage. The work also provides a rich assembly of practical materials for the wife's use and for her household, including treatises on gardening and shopping, tips on choosing servants, directions on the medical care of horses and the training of hawks, plus menus for elaborate feasts, and more than 380 recipes.The Good Wife's Guide is the first complete modern English translation of this important medieval text also known as Le Mnagier de Paris(the Parisian household book), a work long recognized for its unique insights into the domestic life of the bourgeoisie during the later Middle Ages. The Good Wife's Guide, expertly rendered into modern English by Gina L. Greco and Christine M. Rose, is accompanied by an informative critical introduction setting the work in its proper medieval context as a conduct manual. This edition presents the book in its entirety, as it must have existed for its earliest readers.The Guide is now a treasure for the classroom, appealing to anyone studying medieval literature or history or considering the complex lives of medieval women. It illuminates the milieu and composition process of medieval authors and will in turn fascinate cooking or horticulture enthusiasts. The work illustrates how a (perhaps fictional) Parisian householder of the late fourteenth century might well have trained his wife so that her behavior could reflect honorably on him and enhance his reputation.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book contains three hundred eighty-four pages. This makes it a substantial read that covers a lot of historical and practical information.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point twelve inches in length, zero point eighty-eight inches in width, and nine point twenty-five inches in height. These dimensions make it portable and easy to handle.
- Q: What type of binding does the book use? A: The book is available in paperback binding. This choice offers flexibility and ease of use for readers.
- Q: How is this book used in educational settings? A: This book is often used as a teaching tool in medieval literature or history courses. It provides valuable insights into the domestic life of the bourgeoisie during the later Middle Ages.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in history? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. Its clear translation and informative introduction make it accessible to those new to medieval studies.
- Q: Can you use this book for cooking classes? A: Yes, this book includes more than three hundred eighty recipes. It can serve as a unique resource for cooking classes focused on medieval cuisine.
- Q: How should I store this book to maintain its condition? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve its binding and pages over time.
- Q: Are there any special care instructions for the book? A: No special care instructions are needed beyond standard book care. Avoid bending the spine and keeping it clean from spills.
- Q: Is this book safe for all ages? A: Yes, the book is generally safe for all ages. However, it is recommended for readers interested in historical content.
- Q: What if my book arrives damaged? A: If your book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers have policies in place to address such issues.
- Q: How do I return the book if I change my mind? A: You can return the book by following the seller's return policy. Generally, it requires contacting customer service within a specific time frame.
- Q: Is there a warranty or guarantee on this book? A: Most books do not come with a warranty. However, check with the retailer for any satisfaction guarantees.
- Q: How does this book compare to other medieval texts? A: This book is unique as it combines practical advice with moral teachings, unlike many other medieval texts that focus solely on religious themes.
- Q: Is this book focused more on cooking or household management? A: The book covers both cooking and household management. It provides practical advice for managing a household as well as numerous recipes.
- Q: What audience is this book best suited for? A: This book is best suited for students, educators, and enthusiasts of medieval literature and history. It appeals to a wide range of readers interested in the past.