Family Life and Illicit Love in Earlier Generations

Focusing on the history of family life, the author explores the distinct differences in European family structures compared to other regions, particularly in economic and social contexts. Key topics include the roles of servants, the plight of orphans and the elderly, and the complex family dynamics of American slaves. The book also analyzes population turnover in pre-industrial England, trends in illegitimacy since Shakespeare, and variations in the age of sexual maturity over time, showcasing significant findings from early historical sociology research.