History of Childbirth: Fertility, Pregnancy, and Birth in Early Modern Europe

OUT-OF-PRINT. "In this meticulously researched book, Gelis examines childbirth in Western continental Europe from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. He explores practices, beliefs, rituals, and customs surrounding fertility, conception, birth, and early childhood. Although his interests are clearly anthropological, this book is of value to women's studies, history of medicine, and social history collections. The role of folklore and magic in the rites of childbirth are central to this work. However, Gelis stops short of examining the transition into 20th century practice. Furthermore, with such heavy emphasis on continental Europe, there are few English references for North American researchers. Still, this is a valuable treatise and is highly recommended for academic libraries."