The Headswoman: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The Headswoman: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

The Headswoman is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Grahame, Kenneth (1859–1932).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Headswoman" by Kenneth Grahame is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores the unique premise of a young woman, Jeanne, who takes on the hereditary role of the executioner in a quaint medieval town. Set against a backdrop of societal norms and gender roles, the novel delves into themes of independence, ambition, and the challenges faced by women in pursuing careers traditionally deemed inappropriate for their gender. In the story, Jeanne boldly claims her right to become the town's executioner after the death of her father. She defies societal expectations, asserting that she is both capable and deserving of this role, which provides her with artistic satisfaction and independence. As Jeanne navigates her dual identity as a professional executioner and a woman seeking love, her life intertwines with that of a young nobleman who becomes her reluctant client. Their relationship evolves as they challenge the conventions of their respective roles, culminating in an unexpected romance that reveals deeper insights into the nature of profession, identity, and personal desires. Ultimately, the novel combines humor with poignant commentary on the struggles faced by women in a patriarchal society.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Headswoman
- Author credits: Grahame, Kenneth (1859–1932)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Executions and executioners -- Fiction
- Satire
- Sex role -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: British Literature
- Category: Historical Novels
- Category: Humour
- Category: Novels
- Category: Romance
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


