Lydia Marie Child and Elizabeth Cady Stanton

The thought of freedom seldom enters the mind of an American woman today. Currently women can vote, hold office, ascertain any profession (if she so desires), and even run for the presidency! Women have far outstepped the boundaries of obedient housewife, they have discarded the restraints of domestic duties and strived for a greater goal, a common objective - to be equal to, or greater than, their virile counterpart. In a world where the gender role is becoming increasingly less defined, where men become “mannies” or assume the position of “househusband,” it is easy to overlook the past. One simply forgets the plights of her ancestors, when embracing the copious liberties available to the modern woman.

However, while embracing the often axiomatic freedoms of today, women everywhere should take time to acknowledge the struggles of previous generations. If one were to delve into the history of early American society, they would surely discover a male-dominated nation where women were expected to tend to their kitchen rather than share the responsibility of high government. During this time, a woman was considered the property of her husband, and was to remain compliant and silent. Nevertheless, two brilliant writers, Lydia Marie Child and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, resolved to confront and address the oppression afflicting America’s women. Although these two women have different styles of writing, they both advocate similar contentions.

Lydia Marie Child’s approach to the matter of women’s rights is eloquent; she addresses her perception of the matter while maintaining a calm, incisive disposition. Even when she is obviously distraught, she manages to maintain composure. The fact that she cites many other works in her letter sug...

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... consciousness, through all the obstacles of bigotry, sensuality, and selfishness. As man approaches to the truest life, he will perceive more and more that there is no separation or discord in their mutual duties” (1100). Child appears to sincerely believe that equality of the sexes will significantly benefit both women and men.

While each woman chose her own unique approach to the subject of women’s rights, both Child’s Letter XXXIV [Women’s Rights] and Stanton’s The Seneca Falls Declaration (1848) provide a detailed description of their reactions to a chauvinistic society. Each woman is so offended by the matter that she is compelled to compile a document of grievances.

Works Cited

Child, Lydia M. "Letter XXXIV [Women’s Rights]." The Norton Anthology of American Literature. 7th ed. Vol. A. New York: W.W.Norton & Company, Inc., 2007. 1096-1100. Print.