Publication Date

7-1990

Journal

Iowa Law Review

Abstract

The article argues that contemporary feminist theories are ahistorical and culturally narrow, often mirroring medieval misogynist stereotypes by assuming that late-twentieth-century, white, upper-middle-class American experiences represent universal truths about gender. By examining medieval canon law and societal norms, the analysis reveals that patriarchal structures have persisted across time, adapting to different cultural definitions of masculinity and femininity. The author advocates for a more historically and cross-culturally informed approach to jurisprudence and gender theory to avoid replicating past oppressions.

Volume

75

Issue

5

First Page

1135

Last Page

1218

Publisher

The University of Iowa College of Law

Disciplines

Jurisprudence | Law | Law and Gender | Legal History

Download

Share

COinS