“On The Tragedy Of Woman’s Emancipation, And Marriage And Love” By Emma Goldman

 

On the Tragedy of Woman’s Emancipation, and Marriage and Love by Emma Goldman. Is about how women were not seen as equivalent to men. Women were inferior to men on certain points such as job field, the right to vote, or etc. Man during earlier times (early 19^th century) viewed women as a housewife. Goldman on other hand describes it as “surpasses her sister of past generations in knowledge of the world and human nature” and that she is both “self-supporting” and “economically free” (paragraph 3, page 205).Goldman does a great job showcasing to the readers women of those time were not dreaming high to reach certain goals as men and thrive on husband’s income. An example can best relate is sitcom of 1950s known as Father knows Best. The mother is a housewife, always happy doing the chores and tending the children. Whence, the father is the decision maker in the house. By watching this sitcom it leaves of expression emancipation women of those time were like puppets controlled by the significant other.

This control can also be solidifying in marriages. Emma Goldman states, ““the institution of marriage makes a parasite of a woman, an absolute dependent” (paragraph 2, page 212). Women are not sharp to realize husband manages to play with her emotions through wealth. Only money can buy happiness or for women of those time jewelry, clothing or ornaments. Due to their lack of realization, sadly wife’s are like dolls to their husbands. This best relates to a literary example of Nora from “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen conveys Goldman’s view about marriage (paragraph 6, page 209). Her husband treated her as his trophy wife and is ignorant of his wife wants. Toward the end of the play, Nora leaves Torvalds, sacrifice her reputation, and save her individuality.

Emma Goldman gives good examples on the tragedy of woman’s emancipation, marriage and love. If I were to compare Goldman to Punzo there would be disagreement on having sex before marriage on certain biases, honestly women have the right to express intrinsic value. An aspect can derive from their intrinsic value is passion, because women emotional gratification is extremely diverse. Man has to understand cannot limit their wife expectation. It is important to realize women are also not perfect but is important that man honor them in society. For sure the only way to achieve an stable connection; is when there is a proper understanding in the couples and when there are reflection in marriage. Sadly that is not the case that is why the rates of divorce is skyrocketing.