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The Treasure of the City of Ladies

Or the Book of the Three Virtues

Christine de Pizan Sarah Lawson Sarah Lawson Sarah Lawson

$39.99

Paperback

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French
Penguin Classics
05 December 2003
Penguin Classics relaunch

Written by Europe's first professional woman writer, The Treasure of the City of Ladies offers advice and guidance to women of all ages and from all levels of medieval society, from royal courtiers to prostitutes. It paints an intricate picture of daily life in the courts and streets of fifteenth-century France and gives a fascinating glimpse into the practical considerations of running a household, dressing appropriately and maintaining a reputation in all circumstances. Christine de Pizan's book provides a valuable counterbalance to male accounts of life in the middle ages and demonstrates, often with dry humour, how a woman's position in society could be made less precarious by following the correct etiquette.
By:  
Notes by:  
Introduction by:  
Translated by:  
Imprint:   Penguin Classics
Country of Publication:   United Kingdom
Dimensions:   Height: 198mm,  Width: 130mm,  Spine: 15mm
Weight:   183g
ISBN:   9780140449501
ISBN 10:   0140449507
Pages:   240
Publication Date:  
Audience:   General/trade ,  ELT Advanced
Format:   Paperback
Publisher's Status:   Active

Christine de Pizan was Europe's first professional female writer. Sarah Lawson is a renowned translator.

Reviews for The Treasure of the City of Ladies: Or the Book of the Three Virtues

Christine de Pizan, the only 13th century woman-writer, is re-discovered once again in this new, modern edition of one of her most important works. Instructive and humorous this is a book written for every woman in the medieval world, helping them to prosper in society. As well as being unique and having an important historical significance, this is a relatively easy read, considering the time it was written. This translation by Sarah Lawson also contains an interesting introduction that combines the editor's through research with a fresh appreciation of this Italian-born literary heroine. Whether writing about prostitutes, chambermaids, baronesses, the wives of labourers and merchants or widows, Pizan offered a valuable practical social advice, addressing also an important and lasting issue of how can one make the most of their own circumstances. Rich with insights into the medieval life in France and spirit-lifting, this slim and delightful publication is a real treat. (Kirkus UK)


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