Women of the Reformation: Reformers, Rebels, and Revolutionaries

In medieval society, women were primarily expected to fulfill domestic roles within the family, where their duties were largely confined to managing the household, bearing children, and caring for their families. This role was seen as essential, yet it was also restrictive, as women’s public roles were limited. For the majority of women, particularly those from lower social classes, opportunities for education and professional engagement were scarce. In higher social strata, noblewomen might have more access to education and the management of estates, but their freedom was still restricted by societal norms that valued women primarily for their familial and reproductive functions.