Youth and Authority: Formative Experiences in England 1560-1640

In this new work, Paul Griffiths surveys the attitudes and activities of young people, examining their reaction to authority and to society's concept of the 'ideal place' for them in the social order. He sheds new light on issues as diverse as juvenile delinquency, masculinity, sexual behavior and courtship, clothing, catechizing, office-holding, and church seating plans. His research reveals much about the nature of youth culture, religious commitment, and master/servant relations, and leads to the identification of a separate milieu of 'masterless' young people.