A Conversation between Catherine the Great and Marie Wollstonecraft - Essay Example

First and A Conversation between Catherine the Great and Mary Wollstonecraft Mary Wollstonecraft, a revolutionary advocate of women’s rights and a stellar scholar in France, has released a treatise entitled “A Vindication of the Rights of the Woman (1792). The treatise, which garnered criticisms from various sectors of French society, was able to intensively examine the need to provide women with same rights and privileges as men. Through massive publication, Wollstonecraft’s treatise was able to reach a huge number of readers, including those who reside outside of France. And one of the key personalities that the treatise was able to appeal to is Catherine the Great of Russia. The next part will highlight the discussion that happened between Mary Wollstonecraft and Catherine the Great during the former’s visit to Russia. Through their dialogue, we intend to learn, firstly, about their individual profiles; secondly, their opinions on the role of women in their societies; and lastly, their insightful views on the ideal role of women in society. Catherine the Great: Good day! Have a seat. I have summoned you here to have an interesting talk about your recently released treatise entitled “A Vindication of the Rights of the Woman”. But to formally introduce myself to you, I am Catherine the Great, Queen of Russia. Just like you, I consider myself to be ‘enlightened’ given my firm educational background which I was able to receive through hard work and strong determination (Smitha, 2000). I have been married to Emperor Peter III, who, sadly, has died in an accident. Recognizing the need of our people, I decided to ascend the throne and became their Queen. As their leader, my vision has always been to widen the influence of Orthodox Christianity all over Europe. This is why my kingdom invests heavily on strengthening our military. Aside from this, I also believe that societal order could only be attained through absolute monarchy. Thus, I intend to serve my people as long as I live. But enough about me. Please tell me more about you and your work. Mary Wollstonecraft: Firstly, Your Majesty, I would like to express my sincere thanks for requesting me to personally visit you here in Russia. But just to give you a short background about me, I consider myself to be a scholar. I could say that reading and writing have always fascinated me. For one, I enjoy reading the Bible and analyzing its primary teachings. Aside from this, I have also been a reader of the works of Shakespeare and Milton. Although it has been hard for me to obtain a formal educational training, I still consider myself lucky to have exchanged witty thoughts with clergymen and academicians. Catherine the Great: That was an interesting background, Ms. Wollstonecraft. But I would like to get to know more about your intention for publishing your treatise. Mary Wollstonecraft: Interesting question. I think the main reason that influenced me to writing my treatise is my belief that men and women have been created by God with the same rights and responsibilities. This is based on the fact that men and women possess the same human nature. Gender equality, therefore, is my vision for society. And this could only happen if women are given the right to education. Catherine the Great: Those are highly ambitious statements from you, Ms. Wollstonecraft. I like to believe that women today in the 18th century have become freer as compared to those in the 17th century, given the economic changes that are happening. Specifically, I reckon that the industrial revolution has given women the opportunity to be more directly involved in commerce and politics. For one, it is a known fact that men are now entrusting their wives in running their business at home, either through food production, cloth manufacturing, etc (Bomarito & Hunter, 2000). Wives of wealthy landowners, moreover, manage large estates when their husbands have to travel. With this, I could confidently say that societies today are slowly recognizing our value and capabilities. May Wollstonecraft: I agree with you, Your Majesty! But just to add on what you have said, I also like to stress on the fact that the industrial revolution has also allowed women to work in domestic service, or be apprenticed to various trades. The textile industry has also employed women spinners, sewers and knitters. Catherine the Great: That is true! But I also like to think that the development of women’s role in societies today have also been influenced by the improving literacy of women, mainly due to the increase in publication. Through the works of writers like you, Ms. Wollstonecraft, we are able to communicate clearly what the supposed rights of women are, and how they should be respected by societies. In a sense, I regard your work as an ‘awakener’ or an ‘instigator’. It provides new perspectives on how women should be seen in society. Mall Wollstonecraft: Indeed, Your Majesty. But morally and naturally speaking, I am still adamant in my belief that women should still be able to play their role as home-makers. As such, women should be reminded of their roles in the house as these are critical in not only maintaining peace and order, but also shaping the minds of their children. And just to mention, house obligations are not that easy! Women have to do things like taking care of the poultry, milking, making butter and cheese, and brewing beer! Catherine the Great: I could not agree more. Anyway, I have to thank you again for a rich and insightful conversation. I wish to spend more time talking with you but I still have matters to attend to. I wish you luck in your treatise. Mall Wollstonecraft: It’s been a pleasure talking to you Your Highness. I look forward to seeing you again! Bibliography: Smitha, Frank. (2000). Catherine the Great. Retrieved 20 November 2012 from: http://www.fsmitha.com/h3/h31-gr6c.htm. Bomarito, Jessica & Hunter, Jeffrey. (2005). Role of Women During the 18th Century. Retrieved 20 November 2012 from: http://www.gale.com. Pennybaker, Harrison. (n.d.). Women’s Roles in the 18th Century. Retrieved 20 November 2012 from: http://www.ehow.com/info_8696800_womens-roles-18th-century.html. Read More