The feminine mystique

Definition

The feminine mystique refers to the widely held belief in the mid-20th century that a woman's fulfillment comes primarily from her roles as a wife and mother, rather than from personal ambition or professional success. This concept shaped societal expectations for women, creating a narrow definition of femininity that discouraged women from pursuing careers or education, and instead promoted domesticity as the ultimate goal.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'the feminine mystique' was popularized by Betty Friedan in her 1963 book, which challenged the notion that women's only fulfillment came from being homemakers.
2. Friedan's work is credited with igniting the second wave of feminism, which addressed broader social issues affecting women beyond just voting rights.
3. The feminine mystique contributed to a sense of dissatisfaction among many women, leading them to question their roles in society and seek greater independence.
4. Critics argue that the feminine mystique not only limited women's aspirations but also reinforced patriarchal values by promoting a singular view of womanhood.
5. The backlash against the feminine mystique has led to ongoing discussions about intersectionality, as it often failed to account for the diverse experiences of women across different races and social classes.

Review Questions

• How did 'the feminine mystique' influence women's roles in society during the mid-20th century?
  • 'The feminine mystique' significantly influenced women's roles by promoting the idea that their ultimate fulfillment was found within the home as wives and mothers. This perspective limited opportunities for women to pursue careers and education, instilling a sense of inadequacy in those who aspired to more than domestic life. As a result, many women began to question these societal expectations, ultimately leading to a shift in attitudes towards women's rights and roles.
• Analyze how Betty Friedan's critiques of 'the feminine mystique' contributed to the goals of second wave feminism.
  • 'The feminine mystique' was foundational in shaping second wave feminism, as Betty Friedan's critiques highlighted the dissatisfaction many women felt with their prescribed roles. Her work encouraged women to recognize their potential beyond domestic confines and advocate for equality in various spheres like employment and education. This shift in perspective led to broader discussions about women's rights and spurred activism focused on legal reforms and societal change during this era.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of 'the feminine mystique' on contemporary discussions about gender roles and feminism.
  • 'The feminine mystique' has had lasting impacts on contemporary discussions about gender roles and feminism by illuminating the restrictive nature of traditional expectations placed on women. It has prompted ongoing dialogue about the diversity of women's experiences, especially regarding race, class, and sexual orientation. As feminists today continue to address issues such as workplace equality, reproductive rights, and body autonomy, the critiques launched by Friedan remain relevant, reminding us that the fight for gender equality is multifaceted and ongoing.

Related terms

Second Wave Feminism: A period of feminist activity in the 1960s and 1970s focused on issues such as reproductive rights, workplace equality, and sexual liberation.

Betty Friedan:

An American feminist author and activist best known for her book 'The Feminine Mystique,' which criticized the limited roles available to women and sparked widespread discussion about women's rights.

Gender Roles: Socially constructed roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male or female in a given society.