Much of the literature published so far on gender relations in rural areas has either focused on comparisons of the position of men and women, or explored the position of women given prevailing structural forces and behavioural 'norms' that restrict the autonomy of women as human agents. This groundbreaking book broadens the debate by developing our understanding of how societal processes produce and sustain gender divisions, particularly in rural areas, highlighting aspects of rural women's lives previously invisible in the literature. Illustrated by case studies from France, Germany, Greece, Norway and Sweden, the book examines the critical issues of education and training, entrepreneurship, leadership, limited work and service opportunities, social mobility, and work experiences. In doing so, the contributors provide a fascinating comparative study of both national-regional and broader European realities.