1st Edition

The Roots of Patriarchy A Legal and Genealogical Approach

By Ilenia Ruggiu Copyright 2025
246 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

246 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

246 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

By combining legal and genealogical methodologies, this book describes the origin, decline, resurgence and metamorphosis of patriarchy in the West. The book provides the reader with a unified tool for understanding what patriarchy is, its dynamics, and its main features. The reader will find a guide with which to navigate the dozens of definitions and theories of patriarchy, and will better... Read more

Preface.  Introduction. Part I: From benevolence to oppression 1. The foundation of Western civilization  2. Patriarchy radicalizes  3. Intersections and Critiques Part II: Decline and Metamorphosis 4. Post-Patriarchy?  5. Comparing patriarchies  6. Ending patriarchy  Conclusion.  Appendix I: Definitions  Appendix II: Qualifiers  

Biography

Ilenia Ruggiu is Professor of Constitutional Law at the Department of Law, University of Cagliari, Italy.

"Constitutional law Professor Ilenia Ruggiu has written a stunning book. The Roots of Patriarchy: A Legal and Genealogical Approach describes the origin and metamorphosis of patriarchy in the West. Over a nine year period, the author has traveled worldwide to interview scholars, thereby covering the waterfront from Italy to Asia. State patriarchy has deep roots that are now being challenged in the contemporary world. 

A must read."

Laura Nader, Professor of Anthropology, University of California, Berkeley

“This book provides analytical and historical insight into a key concept in feminist thought and claims its importance for the law; it is a must-read for jurists that take seriously the "woman question.”"

Yuki Asano, Professor of Philosophy of Law, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan