Church Courts, Sex and Marriage in England, 1570–1640

Delve into the intricate world of ecclesiastical courts in England with Church Courts, Sex and Marriage in England, 1570–1640 by Martin Ingram. Published by Cambridge University Press in 1990, this comprehensive study spans 432 pages and offers a meticulously researched examination of how sex and marriage were navigated within the church's legal framework during the Elizabethan and early Stuart periods. Ingram utilizes court records from Wiltshire, Cambridgeshire, Leicestershire, and West Sussex, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of societal norms and legal practices surrounding marriage and sexuality from 1570 to 1640. This book is an essential resource for anyone interested in British and Irish history, ecclesiastical law, and the cultural dynamics of early modern England. Discover the fascinating interplay between religion and personal relationships in this compelling historical narrative.