Middle Ages And The Early Modern Period example essay topic

From 1000 to 1750, European women were treated as a second class and were always unequal to men. Women had responsibilities but no rights. The social standing of a woman also influenced the way she was treated. Women were involved in the community socially, politically, and economically to some extent, by 1750. Since the year 1000, women have become more important and recognized, but still both genders are not treated as complete equals even to this day. In medieval times, from the fall of the Roman Empire to 1500, most women belonged to the lower peasant class.

These women were expected to complete chores and certain farming duties. Women were also supposed to become mothers, take care of their children, and keep their homes in order. Because of the primitive medical care, at the time, approximately 15 percent of women died during childbirth. Even though women in Europe carried out all kinds tasks, they were still treated secondary to males. The middle class woman of the middle ages was treated with a bit more respect then a peasant woman. She was able to have an education, property rights, and often helped her spouse with trade or a business.

Because of the growing need for trade and money the importance of middle class was becoming great as well as middle class women. During the middle ages there were few wealthy or upper class people. The small number of noble women were treated the best, but never better than men. They were of high education and gained large land inheritance. They had a considerable effect on politics because they were advisers to their husbands. Aristocratic women had much control over running the estates.

Upper class women were free from the harsh work of the peasant class, but they were still not put on the same level as men. The early modern period refers to the 1500's, 1600's, and 1700's. A peasant's status in the early modern period generally did not change from what it was in medieval times. They were still required to work in the home and on the farm. An urban low class woman was better treated in this time then in the middle ages. She was able to be an artist, nurse, servant, or a merchant.

During the early modern period, the middle class was growing. European women now had a more significant position in economic life. In these times women were more likely to be literate and were more active in intellectual and cultural functions. The upper class had a great deal of positive improvement from the medieval period in Europe. They were now included in certain activities, to a point. The women were able to take part in scientific work and philosophical debates, which were formerly always engaged upon by men.

Their ownership of property amplified and they became more involved in the legal system. Throughout the middle ages and the early modern period, 1000 to 1750, the role of women has significantly changed in a beneficial way. By the end of this time period women were allowed to be more active economically, socially, and politically. Originally they were not included at all in these aspects of life.