BOOK BRIEF

The Book of the City of Ladies

Christine de Pizan
Guide cover placeholder

The Book of the City of Ladies

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Christine de Pizan

The Book of the City of Ladies

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1998
Book Details
Pages

281

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

French Literature

Philosophy
Setting

Medieval Allegorical City

Topic
Gender & Feminism

Philosophy

Education
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Book of the City of Ladies is an allegorical narrative by Christine de Pizan. It features Christine building a symbolic city, guided by personifications of Reason, Rectitude, and Justice. These figures narrate stories of renowned women, challenging misogynistic views and emphasizing women's contributions to society throughout history.

Contemplative

Inspirational

Informative

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

4,122 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Christine de Pizan's The Book of the City of Ladies is praised for its pioneering feminist perspective, eloquent prose, and imaginative narrative. Readers appreciate its historical significance and witty dialogue but may find its allegorical style dated. Overall, it remains a compelling and insightful exploration of women's roles and achievements.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Book of the City of Ladies?

A reader who would enjoy The Book of the City of Ladies by Christine de Pizan appreciates feminist literature and medieval history. Fans of Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One's Own or Mary Wollstonecraft’s A Vindication of the Rights of Woman will find its exploration of women's roles and virtues compelling.

4.2

4,122 ratings

64%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

281

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Classic Fiction

French Literature

Philosophy
Setting

Medieval Allegorical City

Topic
Gender & Feminism

Philosophy

Education
Publication Year

1998

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!