Speaker: see above
Date/Context: The Committee was formed in 1792, so the document was presumably written around the same time. This was in the middle of the French Revolution while many French supported liberty and equality. Considering most of the proletariat were part of these uprisings, women took a stand on what they wished to have in the future government. The official government, otherwise known as the Convention, was presented with the issue of complaints about the planned dissolution of the Society of Revolutionary Republican Women. However, this Committee was most likely composed of men considering their stance on this issues which will be revealed in the summary (which will be told in the same perspective that it was written in).
Summary: In its investigation, the Committee attempted to answer two questions: Can women play a significant role in government? and can they join governmental associations? The Committee answers no to both of these. In regards to the first question, running the government requires extensive knowledge and training. One needs to have the utmost attention to the issues at hand. The Committee looked into the past and saw very few examples to support the assertion that women can do any of the aforementioned tasks. In reference to the second question, governmental councils are meant to complete a multitude of tasks including tracking the enemy, keeping a watchful eye on citizens, and facilitating the understanding of governmental decisions through debates. Women cannot effectively complete these tasks due to the difference between men and women that nature has provided. These contrasting factors allow women to maintain the general order of society instead. Man contrasts with woman by being strong and robust; he is able to brave all of the dangers of the world and can take charge of people if need be. Nature has given women separate aspects to their personality. They can educate, prepare young children, and elevate their souls into adulthood. However, their most important job is to keep good care of the house. Women’s naturally modest nature prevents their morals from shining through, and morals constitute the foundation of the republic. All in all, women should have no say in government whatsoever.
Key Quotations:
“(1) Can women exercise political rights and take an active part in affairs of government? (2) Can they deliberate together in political associations or popular societies? With respect to these two questions, the Committee decided in the negative.”
“In general, women are ill suited for elevated thoughts and serious meditations...”
Duncan, you did a great job summarizing this document. You gave an extremely detailed summary that focused on the two main questions that the Convention posed to women. I was very pleased that you in fact gave a synopsis in the point of view that the document was written, which keeps it very true it itself and biases. The only thing I wanted more of was a better context, with dates and names and such to put it into more perspective. The quotes that you provided sufficiently add to the post. Overall a great job!
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