Woman in the Nineteenth Century

Woman in the Nineteenth Century, written by Margaret Fuller and first published in 1845, is a seminal text in early American feminist literature. Fuller, a prominent American journalist, critic, and women's rights advocate, was deeply influenced by transcendentalist philosophy and her work as an editor for The Dial, a transcendentalist magazine. Drawing on her experiences and intellectual background, Fuller uses this text to challenge the societal limitations placed on women, advocating for gender equality and intellectual freedom. The work blends elements of essay and social critique, addressing topics such as women’s education, marriage, and moral progress.

A pivotal contribution to feminist discourse, Woman in the Nineteenth Century remains a cornerstone of American literary and philosophical thought, reflecting the era's evolving views on gender roles, equality, and personal development. Fuller's exploration of themes such as human potential, the hypocrisy of American freedom, and moral growth continues to resonate in discussions of feminist and social justice movements today.

This guide uses the digitized version of Woman in the Nineteenth Century, published in 1845 by H. G. Clarke and Co.

Content Warning: The source text discusses enslavement.

Summary

Woman in the Nineteenth Century is a book expanded from an essay—"The Great Lawsuit: Man versus Men; Woman versus Women”—that explores the role and rights of women in society. Drawing on personal experiences, historical references, and philosophical arguments, Fuller calls for gender equality and the recognition of women’s potential beyond traditional domestic roles.

The text opens with Fuller addressing the current state of women in 19th-century America, where they are restricted to the roles of wives, mothers, and caretakers. She critiques the prevailing societal view that women are inherently inferior to men, arguing that this perception is not based on natural differences but rather on societal conditioning and lack of opportunity. Fuller challenges the cultural norms that deny women access to education, meaningful work, and self-determination. She asserts that men and women are two halves of the same whole, each necessary for the full development of humanity. This sets the stage for her central thesis: Women's liberation is not only a moral imperative but also essential for the progress of society.

Throughout the text, Fuller draws attention to the concept of human potential and argues that gender should not limit an individual's capacity for intellectual, spiritual, and moral growth. She emphasizes that both men and women have the potential to develop fully as human beings if given the opportunity. She advocates for women to have the freedom to cultivate their intellectual and spiritual capabilities, arguing that a society that stifles the potential of half its population is doomed to stagnation.

Fuller addresses the common argument that women are naturally more suited to domestic roles and dependent on men for protection and support. She refutes this by pointing out that many women are already living independently due to economic necessity or personal choice, and they are capable of surviving and thriving without male support. She critiques the "separate spheres" ideology, which dictates that men belong in the public sphere and women in the private, domestic sphere. Instead, Fuller envisions a society where both men and women can participate equally in all aspects of life, free from the limitations imposed by gender roles.

Fuller dedicates a significant portion of the text to her critique of marriage and its often unequal dynamics. She describes traditional marriage as a form of bondage for women, where they are expected to submit to their husbands and sacrifice their desires and aspirations. Fuller advocates for a more egalitarian model of marriage based on mutual respect, intellectual companionship, and shared spiritual goals. She calls for the recognition of women as individuals with their own rights and needs rather than as mere extensions of their husbands.

Fuller compares the plight of women to that of enslaved people. Fuller suggests that in a state of acknowledged enslavement, men and women are equals, both reduced to the status of "work-tools" and property. She uses this comparison to emphasize the dehumanizing nature of both systems of oppression.

Fuller also explores the spiritual and moral dimensions of gender equality, arguing that political or legal reforms alone cannot achieve true freedom for women. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth and self-reliance, encouraging women to seek their own spiritual and intellectual fulfillment. Fuller believes that individual growth achieves moral progress, and she urges women to embrace their potential as spiritual and intellectual beings. This, she argues, will lead to the betterment of society as a whole, as both men and women will be able to contribute fully to the advancement of humanity.