Woman in the Nineteenth Century

Fuller addresses how men have reacted to women’s achievements throughout history. She argues that while men may lack generosity in their view of women, it is largely because they have not yet reached a level of moral or intellectual development that allows them to truly appreciate women’s potential. Fuller points out that men are often surprised by women’s accomplishments, praising them as if they have surpassed expectations simply by achieving anything beyond domestic roles.

Fuller also critiques the cultural expectation that women should only fulfill domestic duties, comparing Penelope and Ulysses in The Odyssey to show that both men and women are capable of meaningful contributions, both at home and beyond. She uses the example of Countess Emily Plater, a Polish revolutionary heroine, to illustrate that women can embody strength, intelligence, and leadership when given the opportunity.

Fuller argues that men’s limited view of women stems from societal norms and historical precedent but notes that when women have proven themselves—like historical figures such as Sappho and Aspasia—men have often responded with admiration. Men are not inherently ungenerous, but rather, their lack of development limits them, and when women rise to meet challenges, they are often met with approval and even reverence.