The Contradictions of Patriarchy in Early Modern England

This essay argues that in order to develop an understanding of patriarchy as a dynamic historical force, we need to think about it as a social formation which, like capitalism, both shapes and is shaped by other aspects of society. Also like capitalism, patriarchy embodies numerous contradictions. Those contradictions provide space for female agency, as well as possibilities of change. The ability of patriarchy to change and adapt, by moving through various contradictions, helps us understand the process by which patriarchal equilibrium is maintained. The contradictions are illustrated by an examination of two sets of failures of patriarchy in early modern England, unruly wives and failed patriarchs. Both men and women failed in the performance of patriarchy, but the ways they did so shed light on the specific ways patriarchy functions at any particular time.