Feminine virtue

Definition

Feminine virtue refers to the set of qualities and characteristics traditionally associated with women, such as purity, modesty, and moral integrity. This concept often emphasizes women's roles as caregivers and moral exemplars in society, reflecting societal expectations of female behavior and identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Coquette', feminine virtue is portrayed through the character of Eliza Wharton, whose struggle between societal expectations and personal desires highlights the tension surrounding women's roles.
2. The novel illustrates the consequences of deviating from feminine virtue, as Eliza's choices ultimately lead to her social downfall and tragic fate.
3. Feminine virtue in this context is tied to the ideals of purity and chastity, which were considered essential for a woman's social acceptability during the late 18th century.
4. The portrayal of feminine virtue serves as a critique of societal norms that restrict women's autonomy and agency in their personal lives.
5. The conflict between personal desire and societal expectations reflects broader themes of gender roles, morality, and the importance placed on women's behavior in shaping their identities.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of feminine virtue shape Eliza Wharton's character in 'The Coquette'?
  • Eliza Wharton's character is deeply influenced by the expectations surrounding feminine virtue. Throughout the novel, she grapples with her desire for independence while facing societal pressures to conform to ideals of purity and modesty. Her ultimate downfall can be seen as a direct result of her inability to navigate these conflicting demands, highlighting how the rigid definitions of feminine virtue limit women's choices and agency.
• Discuss how 'The Coquette' critiques the societal expectations of feminine virtue during its time.
  • In 'The Coquette', the narrative critiques societal expectations by illustrating the harsh consequences faced by women like Eliza who attempt to assert their independence. The novel exposes the double standards inherent in the concept of feminine virtue, as Eliza's pursuit of love and personal happiness leads to social ostracism. By showcasing her struggles, Foster invites readers to question the validity and morality of the restrictive norms imposed on women.
• Evaluate the role of feminine virtue in reinforcing or challenging gender roles within 'The Coquette' and its broader implications for understanding women's identities during this period.
  • Feminine virtue in 'The Coquette' serves both to reinforce traditional gender roles and to challenge them through Eliza's journey. While the novel initially upholds the importance of purity and moral integrity, it simultaneously critiques these ideals by depicting their consequences on women's lives. This tension reveals a complex understanding of women's identities in the late 18th century, suggesting that adherence to feminine virtue often results in social constraints that hinder personal freedom and self-expression. The story prompts readers to consider how societal norms shape women's experiences and identities in profound ways.

Related terms

Sentimentalism: A literary movement that emphasized emotion and individualism, often portraying women as emotional beings who embody virtue and moral strength.

Cult of Domesticity: A 19th-century ideal that promoted women's roles as devoted wives and mothers, emphasizing their moral authority within the home and society.

Moral Superiority: The belief that women possess a higher moral standard than men, often used to justify their societal roles as moral guides and nurturers.