Meaning:
The quote "Blind submission in women is considered a virtue, while submission to wrong is itself wrong, and resistance to wrong is virtue alike in women as in man" by Ernestine Rose, a 19th-century activist, reflects her views on the role of women in society and the importance of resisting injustice. Ernestine Rose was a prominent feminist and abolitionist who advocated for women's rights and social equality during a time when such ideas were not widely accepted. Her quote challenges the traditional notion of women being expected to submit without question and asserts that resistance to wrongdoing is a virtue for both women and men.
In the context of the 19th century, women were often expected to be submissive and obedient, particularly within the confines of marriage and societal norms. The concept of "blind submission" refers to the unquestioning obedience and compliance expected of women, often at the expense of their own autonomy and well-being. Rose's critique of this expectation as being considered a virtue highlights her belief that such blind submission is not inherently virtuous, but rather a form of oppression and injustice.
Furthermore, Rose's statement that "submission to wrong is itself wrong" emphasizes the idea that blindly following societal norms or expectations, even when they are unjust or oppressive, is morally incorrect. This challenges the prevailing belief that women should passively accept their circumstances, even when those circumstances are unjust or harmful. Instead, Rose advocates for the recognition of the inherent wrongness in submitting to injustice, regardless of one's gender.
Moreover, the assertion that "resistance to wrong is virtue alike in women as in man" underscores Rose's belief in the inherent equality of virtue between men and women. By emphasizing that resistance to wrongdoing is a virtue that applies to both genders equally, Rose challenges the prevailing gender norms of her time, which often dictated different expectations for men and women. In doing so, she advocates for a more equitable and just society where both men and women are equally empowered to resist injustice and oppression.
Ernestine Rose's quote continues to hold relevance in contemporary discussions about gender equality and social justice. In many parts of the world, women still face societal pressures to be submissive and obedient, and their resistance to such expectations is often met with criticism or backlash. Rose's words serve as a reminder that the expectation of blind submission is not a virtue, but rather a form of injustice that should be resisted.
In conclusion, Ernestine Rose's quote encapsulates her advocacy for women's rights and social equality, challenging the traditional expectations of blind submission and emphasizing the virtue of resistance to wrongdoing for both women and men. Her words continue to inspire and resonate with those who strive for a more just and equitable society, free from the constraints of gender-based expectations and oppression.