It isn't hard to distinguish characteristics that are opposite between boys and girls. Girls are sugar and spice and everything nice; boys are snakes and snails and puppy-dog tails! We are raised differently. Little girls play with dolls and practice the entrance to their wedding with their best friends; little boys play war and tackle each other. We have expectations from our parents that are different. I was expected to get good grades in school, while my brother was expected to excel in sports.
We can also see these gender seperations in 19th century literature. Ragged Dick is street smart and has a thourogh knowledge of historical landmarks and figures, "At Eight Street Dick turned to the right, and pointed out the Clinton Hall Building now occupied by the Mercantile Library, comprising at that time over fifty thousand volumes." (p. 56). Never before this text have we encountered a character who references important events, places, or people. Ragged Dick wears George Washington's coat and Napoleon's pants. Knowing who these people are tells the readers that boys are expected to be worldly and intelligent.
Excluding Capitola, our characters have been dependant on others for survival. Dick is independant in everyway. He is also hard working and honest which are qualities we want boys to have. These attributes will translate into well-rounded, able bodied men.
Dick- "Made it by shines, in course. My guardian don't allow me no money for theatres, sp I have to earn it."
Porter- "Some boys get it easier than that," said the porter significantly
Dick- " You don't catch me stealin', if that's what you mean," said Dick (p. 10)
These representations of boys have followed into the 21st century. Qualities little boys were required to have, seem to be about the same as today. On the other hand, girls have come a long way. We don't have to be housewives anymore. We can have jobs and earn our own money. Our ultimate goal is no longer marriage; but 21st century men seem to possess the same desires as 19th century men. Their pursuit in life is to be a good provider....but, more involved in family affairs.
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I love how in the beginning of your post you really gave great examples of the modern differences between boys and girls. Everything you said about them are so incredibly true. It really paints a picture in the readers head of just what girls and boys are all about!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Caroline one hundred percent. I enjoyed the intro to your blog a lot. Also, where you stated that Ragged Dick depends on no one other than himself on a daily basis... I felt that was a major point to discuss because it is true that our girl characters are constantly dealing with an issue that they are unable to solve for themselves.
ReplyDeleteI found it interesting that you compared 19th century men and women to 21st century men and women at the end of your blog. It was a great point that you made! I agree that the roles of women have shifted more drastically than the role of a man. Today, women have the opportunities to be self-sufficient, while in the 19th century, they tended to rely on their husbands or guardians because opportunities for independence were rare. Great job!
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