Plot Summary

The Creation of Patriarchy

Gerda Lerner
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The Creation of Patriarchy

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1986

Book Brief

Gerda Lerner

The Creation of Patriarchy

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Creation of Patriarchy by Gerda Lerner critically examines the ancient origins of women's systematic subordination to men by exploring historical research, focusing on Mesopotamian, Hebrew, and Abrahamic regions and religions. Lerner proposes that patriarchy originated from the organization of tasks and the development of agriculture, leading to enslavement, legal enforcement of gender roles, and the marginalization of women in societal and religious structures. This work highlights the historical, not biological, roots of women's exclusion and calls for a radical re-visioning of gender roles. The book discusses themes of slavery, female subjugation, and the systemic oppression of women.

Informative

Challenging

Contemplative

Mysterious

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.6

3,048 ratings

89%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Gerda Lerner's The Creation of Patriarchy is widely praised for its thorough historical analysis and pioneering feminist perspective, tracing the roots of gender inequality. While some critics find the narrative dense and complex, others appreciate its depth and scholarly rigor. Overall, it is regarded as an essential text for understanding patriarchal structures.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Creation of Patriarchy?

Readers who appreciate The Creation of Patriarchy by Gerda Lerner typically have a keen interest in feminist theory, women's history, and social structures. Similar audiences enjoy works like Simone de Beauvoir's The Second Sex and Bell Hooks' Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center. They seek to understand historical contexts that shape gender dynamics.

4.6

3,048 ratings

89%

Loved it

7%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Publication Year

1986

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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