Assignment task:
Can I get some help organizing this essay with extra minor details?
At the end of Chapter 17, under the heading "The Chapter in Review", answer three 'Review Questions' of your choice. Make sure you follow the requirements as stated in the Syllabus.
What were the attitudes of the philosophes toward women? What was Rousseau's view of women? What were the separate spheres he imagined men and women occupying? What were Mary Wollstonecraft's criticisms of Rousseau's view?
The attitudes of the philosophes, the intellectual leaders of the Information, towards women varied, reflecting the difficulties of their time. While some philosophes advocated for the equality and education of women, many held views that mirrored the fundamental societal norms of their time. Rousseau, a prominent Explanation thinker, presented a distinct perspective on women. In his work, "Emile, or On Education," Rousseau expressed a rather traditional view, contending that women's primary role was to be domestic and nurturing. He envisioned separate spheres for men and women, with women primarily responsible for the private realm of the home, focusing on childcare and household duties.
Contrasting Rousseau's perspective, Mary Wollstonecraft, a pioneering feminist philosopher, sharply criticized his views on women. In her groundbreaking work, "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman," Wollstonecraft argued passionately for the education and rights of women. She denounced Rousseau's relegation of women to domestic roles, asserting that such limitations perpetuated ignorance and dependency. Wollstonecraft envisioned a society where women and men shared equal opportunities in education and public life. Her criticisms of Rousseau's views marked a pivotal moment in the Enlightenment, contributing to the evolving discourse on gender equality and women's rights.