Legal Status:
- Shakespeare's Time: Women were considered legal dependents of their husbands or fathers and had virtually no legal rights. They could not own property, make contracts, or sue in court.
- Now: Women have full legal rights and equality under the law. They can own property, make contracts, and have equal access to the legal system.
Suffrage:
- Shakespeare's Time: Women were not allowed to vote or participate in politics.
- Now: Women have the right to vote and hold political office.
Education:
- Shakespeare's Time: Education for girls was limited and often focused on practical skills rather than academic subjects.
- Now: Girls have equal access to education and can pursue any field of study they choose.
Employment:
- Shakespeare's Time: Women were primarily confined to domestic roles and had few opportunities for employment outside of the home.
- Now: Women have the right to work in any field and receive equal pay for equal work.
Marriage and Divorce:
- Shakespeare's Time: Marriage was seen as a legal and economic transaction, and women had little say in choosing their husbands. Divorce was rare and difficult to obtain.
- Now: Marriage is based on consent and equality, and women have the right to choose their partners. Divorce is legal and accessible.
Property Rights:
- Shakespeare's Time: Women could not own property in their own names and any property they brought into a marriage became the property of their husbands.
- Now: Women have the right to own property and have full control over their finances.
Reproductive Rights:
- Shakespeare's Time: Women had little control over their reproductive choices and were expected to bear children. Abortion was illegal and dangerous.
- Now: Women have the right to make decisions about their own bodies, including the right to choose whether or not to have children.
These differences reflect a profound shift in societal attitudes towards women's rights and the recognition of women as equal members of society. While there is still room for improvement in terms of gender equality, the progress made since Shakespeare's time is undeniable.