Societal Change

Marriage, a History Summary of Key Points

Marriage, a History: From Obedience to Intimacy, or How Love Conquered Marriage’ by Stephanie Coontz explores the evolution of marriage from ancient times to the present-day. Coontz examines the social, political, and economic forces that have shaped the institution of marriage over centuries. She debunks many romanticized notions about marriage’s past, reveals how the idea of marrying for love emerged, and discusses the challenges modern couples face.