Witches, Midwives & Nurses by Barbara Ehrenreich and Deirdre English

Authors: Barbara Ehrenreich and Deirdre English
Publisher: Feminist Press
Genre: Nonfiction, Feminist History
Year of Publication: 2010
Date of Publication: July 1, 2010
Pages: 112
ISBN-10: 1558616616
ISBN-13: 978-1558616615

Summary

Witches, Midwives & Nurses explores the historical roles of women healers and their persecution as “witches.” 

It provides insights into how patriarchy has long marginalized female healers, paving the way for male-dominated medical practices.

Main Plot & Characters

The authors examine historical accounts of midwives and herbalists targeted by society. 

Their analysis contextualizes the rise of modern medicine and the systematic exclusion of women from the medical field.

Key Themes of Witches, Midwives & Nurses

• Gender and Medicine: Highlights the historical marginalization of women in medical professions.
• Power and Knowledge: Examines how control over healing has long been a source of power.
• Historical Oppression: Addresses how female healers were demonized to shift power to male practitioners.
• Feminism and Health: The text underscores the feminist movement’s role in reclaiming women’s place in healthcare.

Writing Style

Ehrenreich and English’s writing is concise. It blends history with passionate advocacy for the value of women’s knowledge in medicine.

Impact of Witches, Midwives & Nurses

This foundational feminist text continues to inspire discussions on gender, health, and the medical field’s evolution.

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