Meaning: This quote by Ruth Bader Ginsburg encapsulates the challenges and expectations faced by women in the mid-20th century. It reflects the societal norms and gender roles that were deeply ingrained during that time, as well as the values and guidance that were passed down from one generation to the next.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who later became a revered Supreme Court Justice, was born in 1933 and grew up during a period when traditional gender roles were the norm. In the quote, she recounts the advice given to her by her mother, which highlights the conflicting messages that many women of her generation received. The first piece of advice, to "be a lady," reflects the emphasis on propriety, manners, and traditional feminine virtues that were often instilled in young girls at the time. This notion of "being a lady" encompassed traits such as grace, poise, and adherence to societal expectations of femininity.

The second piece of advice, to "be independent," represents a stark contrast to the first directive. It conveys the idea that women should strive for self-sufficiency, autonomy, and the ability to stand on their own two feet. This advice suggests that women should not be solely reliant on others, particularly men, for their well-being and success. In a time when women's roles were often confined to the domestic sphere, the notion of independence was a radical and progressive concept.

Ginsburg's reflection on these two pieces of advice speaks to the conflicting expectations and aspirations that many women experienced during that era. The societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles and expectations, while also striving for independence and self-determination, created a complex and challenging landscape for women navigating their way through life.

The latter part of the quote, "the most important degree was not your B.A. but your M.R.S.," further underscores the prevailing attitudes toward women's education and career aspirations during the 1940s. During this time, women were often encouraged to prioritize marriage and family over pursuing higher education and professional ambitions. The attainment of a "Mrs." degree, symbolizing marriage, was often considered a woman's primary goal and measure of success, overshadowing the value of academic and career achievements.

Ginsburg's reference to the societal emphasis on the "M.R.S." degree serves as a poignant reminder of the limited opportunities and expectations that women faced in a male-dominated society. It underscores the prevailing belief that a woman's worth and fulfillment were largely tied to her role as a wife and mother, rather than her individual accomplishments and aspirations.

In reflecting on her mother's advice and the societal norms of her time, Ruth Bader Ginsburg provides insight into the challenges and opportunities that shaped her own journey as a trailblazing advocate for gender equality. Her remarkable career and legacy as a champion of women's rights and social justice stand as a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers for women in the legal profession and beyond.

In conclusion, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's quote encapsulates the conflicting messages and societal expectations that many women faced in the 1940s. It reflects the tension between traditional gender roles and the aspiration for independence, as well as the prevailing attitudes toward women's education and career aspirations during that era. Ginsburg's own trajectory as a pioneering advocate for gender equality underscores the transformative impact of challenging and reshaping societal norms. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations of women to pursue their aspirations and advocate for gender equity and inclusion.