October 6. 2021
Much has happened since I began research on the Power Women series in 1993. So many interesting books to read, so many histories to scour for hints and glimpses of women who lived, participated, and thrived in ancient times. Books I. Realities, and II, Expressions, along with Book III, Egypt, are complete and edited, waiting to find a publisher. Book IV, China, is still in progress, and Book V, Japan, is ready for editing.
Encapsulated below are contents of Books I––V.
Book I REALITIES: Women’s Lives in Antiquity: Survival, Status, and Success
Empress Livia Augustus denied highest honors, Roman Wife, Lucretia, raped by intrusive Etruscan Prince. Egyptian Queen Tiye I in charge of husband lavish harem, Queen Weret-Imtes instigates Harem Conspiracy and death of a pharaoh. Macedonian Queen Olympias adept at snake handling and political power.
Book II EXPRESSIONS: Women’s Roles, Vocations, and Labors in Antiquity
Shang Dynasty’s General and Priestess, Fu Hao, Builds an Army of 10,000. Deborah, Hebrew Judge, Prophet, and Warrior bravely leads massive army and saves her people. Sinful Judaean Queen, Herodias, sues for divorce, demands death of John the Baptist.
Book III EGYPT: Intrepid Queens of Ancient Egypt: Women Pharaohs of Dynasty I Through the Ptolemaic Period
Pharaohs Arsinoë II, Hatshepsut, Cleopatra VII shake up their worlds
Book IV CHINA: From Concubinage, Empresses Achieve the Pinnacle of Power
“Emperor” Wu and Empress Cixi introduce Asia to the West, breaking with centuries of tradition
Book V JAPAN: Empresses of Ancient Wa – Land of Mystery and Magic,
to Shōguns and Powerful Women Samurai
Shamanesse Himiko impresses powerful Chinese Emperor. Warrior Tomoe Gozen, battles the Shōguns. Buddhist Nun, Suiko, successfully reigned thirty-five years.