The role of women in Dutch literature from 1782 until the present day

Abstract

This thesis traces the development of the role of women in Dutch literature from 1782 until the present day. Part I shows that in the latter part of the 18th century and for the greater part of the 19th century literature only allowed women to find fulfilment in marriage and motherhood.When by the end of this period the first women were permitted further education, society as a whole was not ready for them.These women were shown to experience great difficulties in finding suitable marriage partners and to find it almost impossible to combine marriage and career. Part II sees a far greater freedom for women - except in novels by regional writers. Divorce and abortion take place, there is a reference to lesbianism and women who are financially independent become less rare. Part III shows several new images of women. They are seen as sexual objects, and as nagging wives. The need for mental fulfilment in married women is stressed and lesbian relationships are discussed openly. The term 'radical feminism' is introduced. In order to do justice to this subject, works by well-known writers on feminism have been used and are referred to throughout.