When God Was a Woman
When God Was a Woman
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Brief
Beta265
Book • Nonfiction
Ancient Near East • Prehistory
1990
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In When God Was a Woman, Merlin Stone examines ancient societies where female deities were worshipped, exploring the cultural shift to patriarchy. She traces evidence from history, mythology, and archaeology to understand how female-centered worship influenced early civilizations and how societal structures changed over time.
Reviews & Readership
7,214 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
When God Was a Woman by Merlin Stone provides an engaging exploration of ancient matriarchal societies and the shift to patriarchal dominance. Readers appreciated the depth of research and compelling arguments. However, some critics noted a lack of academic rigor and over-reliance on speculative interpretations, questioning the historical accuracy of certain claims.
Who Should Read When God Was a Woman?
Readers who would enjoy When God Was a Woman by Merlin Stone are intrigued by feminist theology, ancient matriarchal societies, and the suppression of goddess worship. Similar to those who appreciate Riane Eisler’s The Chalice and the Blade and Marija Gimbutas' The Language of the Goddess, they seek to understand the historical shift from matriarchy to patriarchy.
7,214 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
265
Book • Nonfiction
Ancient Near East • Prehistory
1990
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!