How to Survive as a Woman in the Middle Ages. The Curse of Eve, the Sin of Eyebrow Plucking, and the Saving Abstinence

How did women live in the Middle Ages – in cities, villages, and high castles? How did men want to see them, and how were they in reality?
Contradictory demands followed medieval women throughout their lives. A woman was expected to be beautiful, yet she was not to do anything for it. She was to uphold piety, but she was considered hopelessly sinful by nature. They had to maintain the household, bear children, and work a lot. Women were blamed for all troubles – from the sin of Eve to the Great Flood and the plague. How did they cope with all this?
Historian Eleanor Janega tells about outstanding women of that era and others, less known, whose stories are hidden in documents and court cases. Farmers, brewery owners, artisans, and artists – they changed the perception of female nature, intellect, and abilities.