“Literature cannot be the business of a woman’s life, and it ought not to be.” This statement, while shocking to some today, reflects a disheartening reality for women writers of the 19th century. It wasn’t just a casual opinion, but a pervasive societal belief that actively limited women’s opportunities in the literary world.
Think about Jane Austen, arguably one of the most famous writers of her time. Her novels, filled with sharp wit and social commentary, were published anonymously, simply crediting “A Lady.” Even Sir Walter Scott, a literary giant himself, initially kept his authorship of the popular “Waverly” novels a secret. This anonymity, while offering some protection, also highlights the lower status of novels in the early 1800s. Poetry and essays were considered the domain of serious (male) writers, while novels, especially those with female characters and themes, were viewed as frivolous.
As the 19th century progressed, novels gained respectability, and authors like Charles Dickens and William Thackeray became literary superstars. But this fame and recognition were not equally accessible to all. The Brontë sisters, Charlotte, Emily, and Anne, knew they couldn’t just publish their work under their own names. They chose male pseudonyms – Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell – for their debut novel, understanding that it was the only way to even be considered. Imagine having to hide your true identity just to share your stories with the world.
This prejudice wasn’t just limited to publishing. Aspiring female writers faced an uphill battle even seeking advice. Charlotte Brontë, at the tender age of 21, wrote to Robert Southey, a prominent poet of the time, seeking guidance. His response, sadly, exemplified the prevailing attitude: “Literature cannot be the business of a woman’s life, and it ought not to be.” This wasn’t just a rejection of her writing, but a dismissal of her very aspirations.
The statement reflects the deeply entrenched societal norms of the time. Women were expected to be wives and mothers, their lives confined to the domestic sphere. Writing, especially for publication, was considered unfeminine and a distraction from their “true” duties. The fear was that if women embraced intellectual pursuits like writing, they would neglect their domestic responsibilities and challenge the established social order.
However, women writers, despite these limitations, found ways to persevere. They wrote in secret, formed writing groups, and supported each other’s work. The Brontë sisters themselves are a testament to this, their shared love for literature and storytelling allowing them to break through barriers and achieve lasting literary fame.
