The Mother Figure/The Caregiver (jan 1, 1000 – jan 1, 2020)
Description:
Historically, nature and women have been linked, because of their similar contributions to producing, nurturing, and sustaining life. Mother Earth is perhaps the oldest caregiver figure. A woman as a caregiver has been and is a powerful cultural image, although it is not always seen as a positive image. In fact, there are negative variations on this image (evil stepmothers, neglectful or selfish caregivers, wicked witches).
This conception of femininity deserves particular attention because of its pervasive influence. While it isn't inherently negative, it can be viewed as limiting or oppressive label.
Some examples of Mother Figures in literature and media are included here (in no particular order): Eve from the Bible; J.K. Rowling's Mrs. Weasley; L.M. Montgomery's Marilla Cuthbert; Jane Austen's Mrs. Bennet; the Grimm Brothers' wicked stepmother in Ashputtle; Dicken's Madame Defarge.
Added to timeline:
Evolving Conceptions of Femininity
as shown in literature and media
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