Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers By Barbara Ehrenreich and Deirdre English

First published in 1973 and revised in later editions, Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers is a powerful, concise feminist analysis of the historical oppression of women in medicine. Authors Barbara Ehrenreich and Deirdre English trace how female healers—from wise women and midwives in medieval Europe to nurses in modern hospitals—have been systematically excluded from medical authority by the male-dominated profession.

A Revolutionary Perspective on Medicine and Power

The book argues that the persecution of so-called witches during the European witch hunts was, in part, a campaign against women healers. Many of these women provided care for their communities, particularly for the poor and for other women, often using herbal remedies and holistic healing methods. However, as medicine became professionalized, male physicians, backed by emerging medical institutions, pushed women out of healing roles, portraying them as dangerous, ignorant, or unscientific.

Ehrenreich and English then turn their focus to the 19th and 20th centuries, showing how nursing, while still dominated by women, became a subservient and highly controlled profession under male doctors. The authors critique how women's knowledge and agency in healthcare were diminished, reducing them to assistants rather than independent practitioners.

Timeless Relevance

Though written decades ago, Witches, Midwives, and Nurses remains highly relevant today. The struggle for gender equity in medicine continues, with disparities in pay, authority, and representation still visible. The book also raises important questions about who controls medical knowledge and who gets to define "legitimate" healing.

A Short but Impactful Read

At just under 100 pages, this book is brief but potent. Ehrenreich and English present a compelling case with sharp feminist critique, making it an accessible and engaging read for anyone interested in women's history, healthcare, or social justice. While some of the historical research has been expanded upon in later works, this book remains a foundational text for understanding the intersection of gender and medicine.

Final Thoughts

Witches, Midwives, and Nurses is a must-read for those interested in feminist history and the ongoing fight for women’s rights in healthcare. It sheds light on a largely untold history, challenging mainstream narratives about medicine and authority. Whether you are a student, a healthcare worker, or simply someone passionate about gender justice, this book offers eye-opening insights into the long battle for women’s place in medicine.