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Interpretations B and C both focus on the position of women in Anglo-Saxon society - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 7 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 7
Interpretations B and C both focus on the position of women in Anglo-Saxon society. How do they differ and what might explain any differences? Interpretation B – Oc... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Interpretations B and C both focus on the position of women in Anglo-Saxon society - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 7 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
How do Interpretations B and C differ?
Answer
Interpretation B emphasizes the relatively progressive legal rights of Anglo-Saxon women, highlighting their legal autonomy and community involvement before 1066. In contrast, Interpretation C suggests that pre-Conquest England was more brutal and repressive, noting that women's rights diminished significantly following the Norman invasion. This contrasting perspective raises the notion that while some sources claim Anglo-Saxon women had significant freedoms, others argue that they were effectively marginalized.
Step 2
What might explain any differences?
Answer
Differences may arise from the authors' perspectives and the contexts in which they write. Randolph's interpretation (B) stems from a fictional narrative aimed at promoting a view of empowered women in historical contexts, likely to engage her audience. Conversely, Morris (C) uses a historical analysis grounded in sociopolitical changes, providing a more critical view of women's rights and status. Additionally, varying historical interpretations and biases contribute to differing representations of women's roles in Anglo-Saxon society.