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1. In Women of the Asylum, Geller and Harris mention the idea of the True Woman as the prevailing mindset of both men and women of this time period. This idea presents the image of the passive and submissive wife that is dependent upon her husband for survival, from an economic standpoint and for power within the house and/or marriage. These women were meant to be mothers, yet it was this factor that led to so many women being psychologically imprisoned. Should a woman speak up, should she make suggestions, be independent, or do anything that was considered “abnormal” their husbands, brothers, and/or fathers would have them committed. However, this entire idea seems hypocritical to me. How can a woman be dependent if she is expected to raise children, take care of the home, take care of her husband, etc.? Doesn't that demonstrate a form of independence? I'd like to discuss this mindset some more in class, especially since we are now aware so many women were wrongfully committed.
2. In this time period women are seen as less than men because they are women, meaning they are “weak”, “feeble”, and cannot “process” or “comprehend” things in the ways men can. Yet when women express these emotions they are confined to mental institutions. There's just no winning when it comes to being a woman! Unless you're someone like Dorothea Dix who has the money to “take care” of yourself, then you (as a woman) are pretty much between a rock and a hard place! (Apologies for the mini-rant.)
3. How does the idea of the True Woman conflict with that of the New Woman? Discuss changes in thought, examples, and problems that come with it.
Submitted by Lyndsey Clark. I pledge…