The role of women in the early modern period
I can describe the ways in which early modern Britain was a patriarchal society.
The role of women in the early modern period
I can describe the ways in which early modern Britain was a patriarchal society.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Reformation did not have a significant impact on attitudes towards women.
- Early modern Britain remained a patriarchal society.
- Work for the majority of women centred on the home and was combined with childcare.
- Opportunities for women to receive an education were limited and linked to social class.
- Husbands in the early modern period had a huge amount of power over their wives.
Keywords
Patriarchal - patriarchal relates to a society that is controlled by men
Aristocratic - aristocratic refers to a powerful and wealthy group in society who own land and have titles
Common misconception
The existence of female rulers like Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, meant that women in early modern Britain had significantly more power than in the medieval period.
It was extremely rare for women to wield power during this period. Early modern Britain was a patriarchal society in which society was controlled by men and the vast majority of women were excluded from all positions of power and influence.
To help you plan your year 9 history lesson on: The role of women in the early modern period, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 history lesson on: The role of women in the early modern period, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 3 history lessons from the Thematic study: how has the role of women in British society changed? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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