What social issue does the author explore in the novel, The Way Home?

This novel explores a significant social issue: the portrayal of women as little more than slaves and breeders of children who have no worth outside of marriage. The idea, of course, belongs to the fourteenth century and not to Turner. She can do no less than remain true to the era. However, in marked contrast to the prevailing mores of the day, Anne and her friend Gilly voice their disdain of matrimony: "There's nothing holy about marriage, Anne thought. A baby every year and a husband who drinks like Harry." Gilly says of a new bride, "I wouldn't change places with Emma for any money." Anne and Gilly swear to each other that they will never marry. But these ideas seem too modern for the era and echo the author's rather than the character's thoughts. It is as if Turner is compensating with her own voice for the attitudes and social values of the times.