The Era Of Romeo And Juliet

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Women belong in the kitchen; that statement is valid in the era of Romeo and Juliet. Same for as if somebody said men were superior and only meant for work. Gender roles and stereotypes have vastly changed deeming what a man or woman can or cannot do. From C.E.O. of housework to C.E.O. of businesses, women are becoming bosses, while a man can now stay home with the kids without judgement. People are encouraged to do what they want; not what society thinks should happen.

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Gender stereotypes have changed from the 1600’s to 2019 because women are no longer viewed as less than a man, and men can show more emotion without judgement, and express themselves, causing more open mindsets.

To illustrate, in the period of Romeo and Juliet, women as young as 13 were seen as nothing without a man by their side. In Act 2, Scene 3, Friar Lawrence stated, “Women may fall when there’s no strength in men” (Shakespeare).

He, along with countless men and women believed that a man is what made the woman, and that she was not her own person, but there solely for children and one’s ego. Women were unsuperior in every manor: some, such as Juliet, had to take whatever man they were given, love or not.” Women were only allowed to learn basic knowledge, once basic knowledge was learned they weren't allowed to attend school anymore.” (Jones, Hamiti). Women were wanted to only have a basic knowledge just to know enough to get by, but not enough to have a successful future without the help of a man.

A woman was not supposed to be able to think for herself, but only for the satisfaction of others. Women in the 17th century were seen, as well as treated, foolish and weak.

In contrast, men in this time period were in a whole different situation. In Act 2, Scene 4, Mercutio stated, “Why is not this better now than groaning for love?” (Shakespeare). Men were always supposed to be tough and got made fun of for being upset over things as “silly” as love. Emotions for a man were just not an option, if wanted to be taken seriously. “In general, the products of men’s labor were enjoyed by the whole community.” (Dunklee). Work was also a big part of being a true man in the 17th century. He was to provide the money for the family and represent them. Men in the 1600’s had a lot of pressure to be the strong and intelligent person everyone expected.

Comparatively, stereotypes for a woman drastically changed over the years, and in 2019, they are more successful than ever. “Women own close to 10 million businesses, accounting for $1.4 trillion in receipts.” (DeWolf). Women now are independent, making their own money and decisions. They get married and have kids only if they want; some, not at all. “Only 29% of women are stay at home mothers.” (Duncan). A woman’s main priority is no longer housework, nor is it expected to be due to more and more people becoming fond of women being a quote unquote boss lady. The opportunities and possibilities are now endless, and equal to a man. Women do whatever they put their minds to, without the help of men.

Equally important, gender stereotypes for men have also drastically changed throughout time. “The number of stay at home fathers has risen markedly in recent years, up to 2 million in 2012.” (Livingston). While still increasing, the number of dads whom stay home with their children is nothing like what would have been accepted in the 17th century, purely because it would not have been. Men doing the laundry and dishes is now as much as a social norm that a woman wearing a pantsuit is. “A man crying and talking about their feelings is not a weakness, it is bravery.” (Cates). In today’s time, men are encouraged to show their true emotions instead of always trying to be resistant to emotion. “Manning up” is no longer the expectation: If something is sad, men can be sad. 2019 is a time of self-expression and acceptance to however one is feeling or wants to do in their life.

Of course, some people still hold the same beliefs as old times, thinking a man should work, and a woman should stay home with the kids. However, more and more acceptance of male self-expression and women leadership is booming around the world every day. “On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down all state bans on same sex marriage, legalized it in all fifty states...” (Liptak). The legalization of gay marriage all across the country was a huge deal, showing just how far the 17th century “ideal” gender stereotype has changed coming into the 21st century. While there may still be judgement, it will no longer stop people from doing what feels right to them. “Victoria Woodhull, a leader of the women’s suffrage movement, is best known for being the first woman candidate for the United states presidency.” (MacLean). Women before would have laughed at the thought of having any type of leadership. Now, many women are in political offices and are very important to the United States. There will always be people who will disagree with anything, yet it still has not altered the progress of the world and its people.

In conclusion, Gender stereotypes have changed from the 1600’s to 2019 because women can do whatever they want independently, and men can care for their family without the pressure of a job. Society has come a very long way since the Romeo and Juliet era; men can cry and women can be the boss: all without judgement. Being true to oneself and showing full potential with equal opportunities as one another is only the start of this amazing life. Life is a very precious thing; do what feels right.