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Marriage with a Deceased Wife's Sister by Mayow Wynell Mayow is a detailed examination of the legal and moral implications surrounding the practice of marrying a deceased wife’s sister. In the 19th century, this topic was highly contentious in England, prompting significant debate regarding societal norms, religious views, and legal constraints. Mayow, a barrister and social reformer, argues for the legitimacy and necessity of allowing such marriages, citing both historical precedents and evolving social attitudes.The book begins with an overview of the legal framework surrounding marriage in England, particularly the Marriage Act of 1835, which prohibited marriages between a man and his deceased wife's sister. Mayow critiques this law as an outdated and unjust restriction, emphasizing that it often led to moral dilemmas and unnecessary hardship for widowers and their families. He draws on case studies and public opinion to illustrate the practical and emotional consequences of the prohibition.