Suffer Not a Woman to Speak, R

“Suffer not a Woman to Speak” talks about the oppression and inequality to men women had throughout history. Religion and the civil laws were the main aspects in this article.

Anne Hutchinson’s story offered evidence to the oppression of women in the Massachusetts Bay Colony during 17th century. In her case, it seemed that the Puritans used her sex as an unnecessary crime. They tolerated and accepted her when she followed their way of living, but when she went against some of the Puritan religious beliefs, the community turned against her. They said Hutchinson was a “religious heretic, a political traitor, and a woman who did not conform to her role.” It was not a problem when she held meetings that abided to their beliefs, but when she began teaching other ideas, suddenly she was not doing her role as a woman.

In the 1800’s, women objected to the civil code in the Common Law. One of points was that single women were treated differently than married women in that they were given legal rights to protect herself. Although this is not equal rights, I agree with the idea. Married women should have some legal rights; however, at this time in history, women were more vulnerable and not as well protected without a husband. In marriage, the husband and the wife are supposed to be “one person in law” therefore the legal rights the man is entitled to, should include the wife as well. I do not agree with the fact that men could control their wives and make her work as a servant if they wished. The alterations made to the Common Law code did not help. They were made to seem like the rights for wives were increased, but in reality, women still could not do anything if they were beaten or sued. The equity law did the same thing. It makes it look like it was bettering women’s rights, but it was only available to a small, rich group and men could still control their wives before they could try equity.

Although these cultures and laws demeaned women of their society, the Quakers seemed to treat their women as equals. As said in the text, they were “encouraged to speak out on spiritual and moral issues.” Anyone could be a preacher. Only girls in Quaker settlements received education past the basics, which was very important for both sexes. This way of living was very forward thinking for their time. Most communities had separate and specific roles for women, but the Quakers seemed very peaceful and accepting. They resembled the Indians in a way, because the Indians looked at women as more than house keepers and child bearers. Now, our culture accepts this way of thinking towards women as well. However men and women are still not completely equal, and probably never will me.