The Role of Women: In the World, Past and Present
Throughout history, the role of women has changed dramatically and continues to evolve every day. From powerful queens and courageous activists to brilliant scientists and inspiring teachers, women have always contributed in fundamental way to society, even when their voices were not heard or valued. Today, we recognize their commitment in every area of life and celebrate the achievements through centuries of struggles, determination and intelligence.
New Freedoms in the 18th Century
In the 18th century England, English women began to enjoy greater freedom than their peers in many other parts of Europe. They began to frequent theatres, coffee houses, and literary salons, environments that until recently had been considered exclusively for men. This increased access to public life representing a significant cultural shift, opening up new possibilities for personal and
intellectual expression. Some women became professional writers, making a major contribution to the birth of the modern novel. Rather than focusing on heroic exploits or mythical characters, these authors focused on the everyday lives of ordinary people, highlighting real emotions, relationships, and problems. Many of these novels were written in the form of letters, a style
made possible by the introduction of the postal service in London, which allowed for faster and cheaper communication. In addition, reading became more accessible: libraries and reading clubs
became more widespread, and books became cheaper. This also allowed middle-class women to access culture and share their ideas with an ever-wider audience.
Women Today: Between Progress and New Challenges
In today’s world, women are present in every field: from politics to science, from enterprise to the arts, from education to medicine. Many have become world leaders, founders of successful
companies, technological innovators and spokespeople for human rights. However, despite great strides forward, challenges remain, such as wage inequality, gender violence and the difficulty in
balancing work and family life. The women's rights movement has led to important achievements, such as the right to vote, access to education and work, and the ability to freely choose one’s future. But the journey towards true equality is still ongoing, and everyone – men and women – have a role in building a more just and inclusive society.
by Ilaria Brusca