Evolving Roles and Legal Dynamics: Status of Women in the Medieval and Modern Era in the Territory of Slovakia

The article delves into the intricate dynamics of the status of women in history. It provides a brief insight into the evolution of law concerning the status of women in the territory of Slovakia and some examples of the legal practice witnessed in various legal and non-legal sources. Analyzing the antiquated laws and cultural perspectives, the authors explore the nuances that shaped women’s lives. It points out the paradoxes of the Enlightenment era, which, while advocating for sensible reasoning and progress, simultaneously witnessed scientific justifications for female subjugation. Nevertheless, it was the starting point for a complete change in women’s lives from both the legal and social perspective. This change might even be ongoing, manifesting itself in various issues nowadays, such as getting married and having children at a higher age or not at all.