Meaning: Daniel Defoe, a prominent English writer, journalist, and pamphleteer, expressed his discontent with the treatment of women in the context of education in the above-mentioned quote. Defoe, who lived in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, was known for his progressive views on various social issues, including gender equality. In this quote, he critiques the prevailing societal custom of denying women access to education, which he considers to be barbarous and at odds with the values of civilization and Christianity.

During Defoe's lifetime, the education of women was often limited and focused primarily on domestic skills and religious instruction. Academic and intellectual pursuits were largely reserved for men, reflecting deeply entrenched gender norms and societal expectations. Defoe's criticism of this practice is rooted in his belief in the fundamental equality of all individuals, regardless of gender, and his recognition of the inherent value of education for personal and societal development.

Defoe's characterization of the denial of learning to women as "one of the most barbarous customs in the world" underscores the severity of his critique. By using the term "barbarous," he emphasizes the perceived cruelty and lack of civilization in perpetuating such a custom. This choice of language serves to highlight the stark contrast between the advancement of society and the regressive treatment of women in the realm of education.

Moreover, Defoe's reference to England as a "civilized and a Christian country" adds a layer of irony to his criticism. He implicitly challenges the notion of a truly civilized and Christian society that would deny women the benefits of learning. By invoking these descriptors, Defoe highlights the hypocrisy of a society that prides itself on its moral and cultural superiority while simultaneously perpetuating systemic inequality and denying women the opportunity to fully develop their intellectual capacities.

Defoe's stance on women's education aligns with the broader movement for gender equality and women's rights that gained momentum in the centuries following his lifetime. His critique of the denial of learning to women reflects a growing awareness of the inherent injustice and irrationality of such a practice. It also anticipates the arguments made by later advocates for women's education, who emphasized the importance of intellectual and academic opportunities for women as a means of fostering individual fulfillment and societal progress.

In contemporary society, Defoe's quote continues to resonate as a powerful indictment of gender-based discrimination in education. While significant progress has been made in expanding educational opportunities for women, disparities and barriers still persist in various parts of the world. Defoe's words serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the need to confront and dismantle the remnants of antiquated customs and beliefs that impede the full realization of women's potential.

In conclusion, Daniel Defoe's quote encapsulates his impassioned critique of the denial of learning to women, framing it as a barbarous custom that runs counter to the ideals of civilization and Christianity. His words echo a timeless call for equality and justice, challenging societal norms and advocating for the recognition of women's right to education. Defoe's perspective continues to reverberate through the centuries, inspiring ongoing efforts to advance women's education and promote gender equality worldwide.

References:
- Backscheider, Paula R. "Daniel Defoe: His Life." The Review of English Studies, vol. 43, no. 172, 1992, pp. 321–324.
- Novak, Maximillian E. "Defoe's Journalistic Career." The Review of English Studies, vol. 3, no. 11, 1952, pp. 257–270.
- Todd, Janet. "Feminist Criticism and Defoe." The Cambridge Companion to Daniel Defoe, edited by John Richetti, Cambridge University Press, 2008, pp. 218–235.