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The Victorian era is often characterized as a period of extreme prudence and emphasis on appearances. During this time, one's outward image held paramount importance, and individuals sought to present themselves as flawlessly as possible. The desire for societal approval and admiration was pervasive. This era could be seen as hypocritical because it demanded an unattainable perfection, leading to dishonesty and pretense in the pursuit of a "saintly" image. This essay explores the role of women in the Victorian age in comparison to contemporary society.
It also delves into the themes of vanity and insecurity among women and examines whether these characteristics persist in the present day.
Women in the Victorian era were subject to stringent societal expectations, and their identity was profoundly influenced by the prevailing values of the time. Miss Gwendolen Fairfax, a member of the upper class, serves as a quintessential representation of a beautiful and affluent woman who, despite the boredom that may afflict her life, strives to maintain an impeccable facade.
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“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”
Gwendolen's preoccupation with fashion is evident when she remarks, "Sugar? No, thank you. Sugar is not fashionable any more." Her fixation on the latest trends exemplifies the importance of external appearances during this period.
Gwendolen's infatuation with Jack, initially tied to his seemingly virtuous name, underscores the significance placed on names and perceptions in Victorian society. She raises doubts about Jack when she discovers that his real name is not "Earnest," which she equates with honesty and decency. This obsession with a name's purported virtue may seem irrational, but it epitomizes the Victorian fixation on superficial qualities and societal expectations.
Cecily Cardew, in contrast to Gwendolen, represents a different facet of womanhood in the Victorian era.
As Jack's ward, she resides in the countryside and does not prioritize appearances to the same degree. While possessing good manners, Cecily exhibits a streak of playfulness, evidenced by her cheeky interactions with Gwendolen. Her attraction to "Earnest" (Jack's brother) stems from tales that depict him as passionate and "wicked," a characteristic that intrigues her. Cecily's preference for recklessness reveals her divergence from the conventional Victorian pursuit of a virtuous husband. Like Gwendolen, however, she also places great importance on the name "Earnest" as a prerequisite for a successful marriage.
Since the Victorian era, significant societal changes have occurred, and women have made considerable strides toward equality. However, certain aspects of gender dynamics have persisted into the present day. The song "It's a Man's Man's Man's World," composed in 1966, underscores enduring inequalities between men and women. Despite the passage of time, women continue to face challenges in achieving full equality, but their essential role in society remains irreplaceable.
The Victorian era's emphasis on appearance and societal expectations has evolved into different forms of pressure on women today. While women have gained rights and opportunities, they still grapple with societal demands that transcend their roles as homemakers and caregivers. The pressure to juggle multiple responsibilities, including work, parenting, and maintaining their appearances, reflects the modern challenges faced by women.
Although significant progress has been made in terms of women's rights, disparities persist in various spheres. The quote, "How absurd to talk of the equality of the sexes! Where questions of self-sacrifice are concerned, men are infinitely beyond us," highlights enduring disparities in expectations and perceptions of gender roles. Men continue to dominate positions of power, and women often find themselves navigating a "man's world." The struggle for equality remains ongoing, with women striving to assert their rights and create a more equitable society.
The tensions and interactions among women, as depicted in the Victorian era and reflected in contemporary society, reveal enduring patterns. Women's responses to perceived threats or challenges from other women remain consistent across time. In both eras, women have the capacity for both camaraderie and competition.
The arguments and disagreements between characters like Cecily and Gwendolen are emblematic of women's responses when they feel their security or status is threatened by another woman's presence or beauty. Despite the conflict, these disagreements typically occur in a manner consistent with societal norms and politeness, as women were expected to maintain decorum even during disagreements.
The dynamics among women are not limited to confrontation; they can also include strong bonds of friendship and support. The quote, "They will be calling each other sister. Women only do that when they have called each other a lot of other things first," captures the complexity of female relationships. Women have the capacity for deep friendships but can also engage in rivalry and judgment, reflecting the multifaceted nature of female interactions.
While significant progress has been made in the status and rights of women since the Victorian era, certain elements of gender dynamics persist in modern society. The Victorian emphasis on appearances and societal expectations has evolved into a different set of pressures on women today, who are expected to balance various roles and responsibilities. The struggle for gender equality continues, with women striving to assert their rights and dismantle enduring disparities. Women's interactions with each other, whether characterized by camaraderie or competition, remain complex and reflective of societal norms.
In conclusion, the Victorian era left a lasting impact on the perception of women's roles and the importance of appearances. While progress has been made, the challenges and expectations placed on women have evolved rather than disappeared. The fight for gender equality is an ongoing journey, and the interactions among women continue to reflect the intricate tapestry of female relationships. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, we must recognize the enduring legacy of the past while working toward a more equitable future.
The Role of Women: Victorian Era to Modern Times. (2018, Aug 29). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/gwendolen-and-cecily-in-the-importance-of-being-earnest-essay
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