Angel in the house

Definition

The 'angel in the house' is a term that refers to a domestic ideal of femininity that emerged in the 19th century, depicting women as pure, self-sacrificing, and devoted wives and mothers. This concept reinforced the notion that a woman's place was in the home, serving her family and embodying moral values. It played a significant role in shaping social expectations for women during a time of major cultural transformation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term originates from Coventry Patmore's poem 'The Angel in the House' published in 1854, which celebrated women's selflessness and devotion to family.
2. The angel in the house ideal became a dominant cultural narrative in Victorian society, reinforcing traditional gender roles and limiting women's opportunities outside the home.
3. Women who conformed to this ideal were often praised for their virtue, while those who sought independence or careers were frequently criticized.
4. The concept was both a reflection of and a reaction to the rapid social changes occurring in the 19th century, including industrialization and urbanization.
5. The angel in the house notion gradually faced criticism from feminist movements that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for women's rights and equality.

Review Questions

• How did the 'angel in the house' ideal influence societal expectations of women during the 19th century?
  • The 'angel in the house' ideal significantly shaped societal expectations by promoting the notion that women's primary role was to be devoted wives and nurturing mothers. This perspective emphasized virtues such as self-sacrifice and purity, placing immense pressure on women to conform to domestic ideals. As a result, many women felt compelled to prioritize family over personal ambitions or careers, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
• Discuss the relationship between the 'angel in the house' concept and the Separate Spheres ideology prevalent during the Victorian Era.
  • The 'angel in the house' concept is closely linked to the Separate Spheres ideology, which divided societal roles into public and private domains. While men were expected to engage in work outside the home and be providers, women were confined to domestic responsibilities. This alignment further entrenched the belief that women's identity and worth were primarily tied to their roles within the household, perpetuating limited opportunities for women's participation in public life.
• Evaluate how the feminist movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries challenged the 'angel in the house' ideal and its impact on women's rights.
  • Feminist movements emerged as a response to restrictive ideals like the 'angel in the house,' advocating for women's rights, independence, and equality. Activists challenged societal norms that confined women to domestic roles, arguing for access to education, employment, and political participation. This growing push for equality not only questioned traditional gender roles but also laid the groundwork for future advancements in women's rights, fundamentally altering perceptions of femininity and contributing to a more inclusive society.

Related terms

Victorian Era: The period of Queen Victoria's reign (1837-1901) marked by strict social codes, a focus on family values, and distinct roles for men and women.

Separate Spheres: A social theory that advocated for distinct roles for men and women, suggesting that men belonged in the public sphere while women were confined to the private sphere of home and family.

Domesticity: The idealization of home life, emphasizing the role of women as caretakers, nurturers, and maintainers of moral values within the family.