What status did women have when Mary Shelley wrote the novel Frankenstein?

Women in the early 19th century, around the time that Mary Shelley wrote the novel Frankenstein, had limited societal status and rights. They lived in a society influenced by the prevailing legal and social norms that defined their roles as wives, mothers, and daughters. Here's an outline of some aspects of women's status during that period:

1. Limited Legal Rights:

Women had few legal rights and were mostly regarded as the property of their husbands or fathers. They had no independent legal standing and were not considered equal citizens.

2. Marriage and Property:

Married women did not have control over their property or earnings, which belonged to their husbands. They were expected to manage the household and the upbringing of children.

3. Lack of Educational Opportunities:

Education for women was usually limited to basic literacy and domestic skills. Access to higher education was restricted for most women, and opportunities for intellectual development were scarce.

4. Limited Social Mobility:

Social mobility for women was dependent on their family's social status. It was generally difficult for women to improve their social standing through their own achievements.

5. Political Marginalization:

Women were excluded from political life and could not vote or participate in government or political discussions.

6. Subordinate Role in Society:

Women were seen as intellectually and physically inferior to men and their role in society was primarily confined to domestic tasks and childbearing.

7. Inequitable Legal Rights:

Laws concerning divorce favored men, and women often had limited options when it came to ending a marriage.

8. Social Restrictions:

Women were expected to adhere to strict codes of conduct and conform to societal expectations. Deviations from these norms could result in social ostracism.

9. Emergence of Feminist Movement:

Although the feminist movement was in its early stages, the late 18th and early 19th centuries saw the rise of influential thinkers who advocated for women's rights and equality.

10. Gradual Social Change:

Despite the limitations, some gradual social changes were taking place. Novels such as Frankenstein, authored by a woman and addressing themes of ambition and knowledge, reflected the growing awareness of women's intellectual potential.

Women's status was gradually challenged and transformed throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, leading to increased rights, freedoms, and educational opportunities for women in society.