Introducing Feminism: A Graphic Guide (Graphic Guides)

by Cathia Jenainati

that women’s and men’s differences are a result of biology. The belief that biology is destiny suggests that, in comparable situations, men exhibit “masculine” psychological traits such as aggressiveness, rationality and assertiveness, whereas women will exhibit “feminine” traits such as gentleness, intuitiveness and sensitivity. These differences, it was believed, translated into particular patterns of thought, feeling and behaviour specific to each gender.

Essentialism sees men as able to think logically, abstractly and analytically, while women are mainly emotional, compassionate and nurturing creatures.

Even if some women were able to receive a higher education, they were not allowed to receive the degree for which they studied. In marriage, the woman’s body belonged to her husband, who was also the only legal guardian of the children.

Upon seeing them, the Duke of Richmond allegedly ordered (sarcastically) … At this point, it is believed that the mob of nearly 400 women attacked him physically and broke his staff of office.

Finding things out individually rather than unquestioningly following tradition was the Enlightenment’s practice of free enquiry.