A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 1 of 3

Name: A History of Matrimonial Institutions, Vol. 1 of 3
Author: George Elliott Howard

By George Elliott Howard

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About This Book

This study first surveys competing theories of primitive matrimonial institutions — including patriarchal, mother-right, horde, and original‑pairing hypotheses — and evaluates them against comparative and anthropological evidence. It then traces the social and legal evolution of marriage in the English tradition, treating wife‑capture, wife‑purchase, self‑betrothal, the church's adoption and regulation of marriage, clandestine marriages, the Protestant redefinition, and the rise of civil marriage. Finally, it chronicles the history of separation and divorce and provides a systematic analysis of state and territorial statutes and legal forms, focusing on changes in procedure, publicity, and the social functions of matrimonial law.

About the Author

George Elliott Howard

George Elliott Howard was an American sociologist and historian, best known for his extensive work on the institution of marriage. His notable work, "A History of Matrimonial Institutions," is a comprehensive three-volume study that explores the evolution of marriage practices across different cultures and societies. Through his research, Howard contributed significantly to the understanding of social structures and the historical context of matrimonial customs. His analytical approach and detailed examination of marriage as a social institution have made his work a valuable resource for scholars in sociology and history.