Written in the 17th century, this is an insight into a time when it was expected wives would be seen (in the kitchen) and (their opinions) not heard. Starting with a section on how housewives have to be chaste in thought, dress and demeanour, the book moves on the recipes. None of this is going to be of much use to the modern cook, as many of the ingredients discussed are quite foreign, and there are references to objects and techniques we just don't have or use now (there is a glossary to help you out if you really want to give it a try) but as a historical document this is quite interesting. ( )