Product Ref: FHF-023
Coffers, Clysters, Comfrey and Coifs by Janet Few
Click to zoom
Step into the world of your 17th-century ancestors with this vivid and accessible social history by genealogist and historical interpreter Dr Janet Few. Whether your ancestors are named in parish registers or remain elusive shadows in the past, this book brings their world to life—offering a richly detailed backdrop to the Stuart era.
Rather than focusing on the aristocracy, Coffers, Clysters, Comfrey and Coifs explores the everyday experiences of ordinary people. It covers:
-
Domestic life – from food, clothing, and household routines to childbirth and child-rearing
-
Medicine and healing – including herbal remedies and curious medical practices
-
Crime and punishment – with insights into the justice system and social discipline
-
Leisure, festivals, and beliefs – including witchcraft, superstitions, and seasonal customs
The book is peppered with period illustrations, extracts from 17th-century texts, and explanations of phrases like “sleep tight” and “humble pie.” It also includes practical tips for family historians seeking to understand the context of ancestors whose personal records may be sparse.
Whether you're researching a named ancestor or simply want to understand how they lived, this book is a treasure trove of insight into the resilience, resourcefulness, and routines of Jacobean life.
ISBN : 9781906280338