The Man‐Made World
“Society” is strictly guarded—that is its women are. As always, the main tabu is on the woman. Consider carefully the relation between
“society” and the growing girl. She must, of course, marry; and her education, manners, character, must of course be pleasing to the prospective wooer. That which is desirable in young girls means, naturally, that which is desirable to men. Of all cultivated accomplishments the first is “innocence.” Beauty may or may not be
forthcoming; but “innocence” is “the chief charm of girlhood.”
Why? What good does it do her? Her whole life‘s success is made to depend on her marrying; her health and happiness depends on her
marrying the right man. The more “innocent” she is, the less she knows, the easier it is for the wrong man to get her.
As is so feelingly described in “The Sorrows of Amelia,” in “The Ladies’ Literary Cabinet,” a magazine taken by my grandmother;
“The only foible which the delicate Amelia possessed was an unsuspecting breast to lavish esteem. Unversed in the secret villanies of a base degenerate world, she ever imagined all mankind to be as
spotless as herself. Alas for Amelia! This fatal credulity was the source of all her misfortunes.” It was. It is yet.
Just face the facts with new eyes—look at it as if you had never seen
“society” before; and observe the position of its “Queen.”
Here is Woman. Let us grant that Motherhood is her chief purpose.
(As a female it is. As a human being she has others!) Marriage is our way of safeguarding motherhood; of ensuring “support” and
“protection” to the wife and children.
“Society” is very largely used as a means to bring together young people, to promote marriage. If “society” is made and governed by women we should naturally look to see its restrictions and encouragements such as would put a premium on successful
maternity and protect women—and their children—from the evils of
ill‐regulated fatherhood.
Do we find this? By no means.
“Society” allows the man all liberty—all privilege—all license. There are certain offences which would exclude him; such as not paying gambling debts, or being poor; but offences against womanhood—
against motherhood—do not exclude him.