Author Description

'The Gospel According to Woman' provides a passionate and provocative interpretation of the history of women in Christianity – a history blighted by the neuroses of a patriarchal Western Culture.Although early Christianity offered a positive message to women, Armstrong argues, by the second century things were taking a distinct turn for the worst. In succeeding ages, the combined effects of Western scholasticism and theology have forced women into certain stereotypical roles – the virgin, martyr, witch, wife and mother.The message is not wholly negative, and Armstrong shows how many women have shrugged off these stereotypes. In fact, our Christian heritage has had much to do with the redressing of the sexual balance in recent years, and continues to add positive and creative elements to our culture. Rigorously researched and well-informed, this book is a brilliant polemical tour de force by the author of 'A History of God'.