An extended, reflective essay on Christian feminist ethics, Virtu- ous Woman provides readers with an overview and critique of the state of contemporary feminist Christian thought. Author Den- ise Carmody writes, "In the course of interacting with numerous current writers and their works, I try to clarify... what the capi- talized words in my subtitle imply. In other words, I try to work out what an ideal 'Christian feminist ethics' would stress, value, try to achieve."

Carmody's reflections take her on a wide-ranging review of the work of feminist novelists, theologians, philosophers, and ethi- cists. She looks at patriarchy embedded in church and society, at sexuality and social marginalization, and at spirituality. Ulti- mately she returns to her central theme: the highest ethical stan- dard for all Christians is to be found in Jesus Christ.