The Myth of Matriarchal Prehistory: Why an Invented Past Won't Give Women a Future

Eller, Cynthia

ISBN 10: 0807067938 / ISBN 13: 9780807067932

Published by Beacon Press, 2001

About this Item

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Seller Inventory # Q-0807067938

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Myth of Matriarchal Prehistory: Why an Invented Past Won't Give Women a Future
• Publisher: Beacon Press
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0807067938
• ISBN 13: 9780807067932
• Binding: paperback
• Condition: New
• Weight: 14 ounces

About this title

Synopsis

According to the myth of matriarchal prehistory, men and women lived together peacefully before recorded history. Society was centered around women, with their mysterious life-giving powers, and they were honored as incarnations and priestesses of the Great Goddess. Then a transformation occurred, and men thereafter dominated society.

Given the universality of patriarchy in recorded history, this vision is understandably appealing for many women. But does it have any basis in fact? And as a myth, does it work for the good of women? Cynthia Eller traces the emergence of the feminist matriarchal myth, explicates its functions, and examines the evidence for and against a matriarchal prehistory. Finally, she explains why this vision of peaceful, woman-centered prehistory is something feminists should be wary of.

About the Author

Cynthia Eller is the author of Living in the Lap of the Goddess: The Feminist Spirituality Movement in America, a Choice Outstanding Academic Book of 1994, and of Conscientious Objectors and the Second World War. She is assistant professor of women and religion at Montclair State University.