How has the portrayal of women in the 18th century literature evolved in comparison to the ways women are represented in contemporary literature, and what factors might have contributed to the shift?
Sneha DasBegginer
The portrayal of women in literature from the 18th century to contemporary times is influenced by various factors such as changes in social, cultural, and ideological shifts. The developments in the women’s rights movement have helped contribute to the shift in female characters and their underlying motivations.
In the 18th century, women were mostly stuck following society’s rules. Many female writers published their works anonymously during that period. It was generally considered inappropriate for women to write novels because it risked damaging their social reputation by attracting attention.
Such was the case of Jane Austen. Her character, Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice shows how women can be smart even though society has strict rules for them. It was very daring for a woman in those times to think of wanting to control their destiny.
Advancing to another century, writers like Charlotte Brontë came to light. Her novel Jane Eyre tells the story of Jane, a strong-willed young woman, who endures the hardships in her life to find love and independence on her terms.
With many such contributions from several female writers, society’s ideas about ‘what women should be like’ have changed a lot. Feminist movements like women’s rights and empowerment have profoundly influenced how female characters are portrayed.
“A Vindication of the Rights of Woman” by Mary Wollstonecraft stands as a cornerstone of the feminist movement. Published in 1792, it passionately argues for women’s equality in education and social roles, challenging prevailing notions of women as inferior to men. Wollstonecraft’s work ignited discussions on gender justice and laid the foundation for future feminist movements, inspiring generations to advocate for women’s rights worldwide.
Now, Contemporary Literature is filled with all kinds of female characters. These characters have power and independence, going against what’s expected of them and questioning old ideas about gender. From Margaret Atwood‘s dark future worlds to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie‘s strong characters, today’s books explore womanhood in many deep and different ways.
Currently, women writers boldly share their perspectives through their writing; raising awareness that women’s experiences vary depending on factors like race, background, and what they love.
The portrayal of women in 18th-century literature and contemporary literature has undergone a significant evolution, reflecting the changing societal attitudes and the advancement of women’s rights and representation over time. Several factors have contributed to this shift.
In 18th-century literature, women were often depicted in limited and stereotypical roles, primarily as passive, submissive, and confined to the domestic sphere. Many literary works of the time reinforced the traditional gender norms and societal expectations placed on women, such as the emphasis on their roles as wives, mothers, and homemakers.
For example, in novels like “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, the female protagonists,
A significant change can be seen in the portrayal of women in 18th century literature and contemporary literature. A broad range of social, cultural and political developments could be seen to have influenced this change.
In the 18th century, women were often portrayed as either of great virtues who were also confined to the domestic setting and the social norms prevalent during the period or as immoral figures. For example, “Pamela” in Pamela. Also, their identities were often linked with men (such as their father, brother or husband) who were also largely the controlling factors of their lives.
In contrast, women in contemporary literature are depicted in more varied and complex roles, including those of professionals, leaders, etc thus transgressing the societal conventions set for women in society. For instance, Katniss Everdeen in “The Hunger Games”. They are also seen as having agency over their own lives, unlike 18th-century literature. The intersection of class, race, etc also further contributes to a more inclusive depiction of women’s experiences.
Feminist activism, access to education, legal protections, changing cultural attitudes, modernisation and thus the empowerment of women are certain factors that could be said to have contributed to the shift.
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The women in literature have always been illustrative of the time and its norms. The shift in their portrayal is evident in the comparison between 18th century literature and contemporary literature.
In the 18th century, women were predominantly depicted in a domestic space, catering to the needs of man and entirely dependent upon him, be it their father,brother or husband. They did not possess the liberty to exist outside the circle of societal expectations.They were depicted as meek, submissive, virtuous and solely concerned with marriage and family. They had little agency or autonomy. One example of this portrayal can be seen in “Mansfield Park ” by Jane Austen where the female protagonist, Fanny Price, is portrayed as quiet, shy, and obedient girl. She is often overshadowed by more dominant characters and accepts her low status within her family without protest.
This style of writing has undergone a significant change in contemporary times where female characters are no longer confined to specific stereotypes or domestic roles; rather they are confident, capable, fearless and on equal footing with their male counterparts. For instance, Hermione Granger, from the “Harry Potter” series by J.K Rowling, is clever, strong, talented and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. She becomes the face of the modern woman, empowered not to be afraid of challenging the status quo.
This shift can be attributed to the feminist movement which advocated for a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of women in literature. Moreover, the emergence of an increasing number of female writers further enriched this market bringing in diverse perspectives and experiences. It is very important, with the evolving nature of literature, to retain the authenticity and diversity it provides women, reflecting the full range of their experiences and identities.
Women were typically represented or rather, defined within the domestic and social hierarchies in the 18th century. They were depicted as virtuous, embodying ideals of piety, modesty, and submission to male authority. The novels mainly focused on the narratives of marriage, motherhood, familial duties. Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Gaskell’s Wives and Daughter and many such novels are critiques of the societal constraints in their work and portrayed the dependence of women on men.
Contemporary literature, on the other hand, presents quite a different picture of women. The characters are presented as complex individuals with various kinds of identities and goals. They defy traditional norms and expectations as they negotiate relationships, careers, and personal development with freedom and power. This can be seen in Marget Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale or Paul Lynch’s Prophet Song, the winner of The Booker Prize, which are set in dystopian world and deal with women enclosed within the spaces created by men to take over the authority, once again. But, these novels have led to protest for the women’s right in the real world, thus, advocating gender equality, educational opportunities a shift towards recognizing and valuing their voices and experiences.
This shift, by the modern author, contributes to a more inclusive literary landscape where women’s stories are celebrated and their perspectives explored with depth and authenticity.