In the older times it was seldom said to little girls, as…
“In the older times it was seldom said to little girls, as it always has been said to boys, that they ought to have some definite plan, while they were children, what to be and do when they were grown up. There was usually but one path open before them, to become good wives and housekeepers. And the ambition of most girls was to follow their mothers' footsteps in this direction; a natural and laudable ambition. But girls, as well as boys, must often have been conscious of their own peculiar capabilities,--must have desired to cultivate and make use of their individual powers.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She argues that girls should be encouraged to develop individual talents beyond traditional domestic roles.
In simple terms: Girls need personal ambition beyond household duties.
Key Takeaway
Encourage unique strengths in all children.
Themes
education
gender
ambition
Mood
hopeful
critical
Type
educational
feminist
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- career counseling
- family guidance
Key Concepts
individuality
social expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- What barriers do girls face in pursuing non‑traditional paths?
- How can mentors support diverse aspirations?
A Different Perspective
Societal norms may resist change.