Woman in the Nineteenth Century

Celibacy is the practice of abstaining from sex, and Fuller presents it as an option for women seeking self-reliance and independence from patriarchal norms. Rather than rejecting love or companionship, she frames it as a means for women to preserve their intellectual and moral autonomy in a society that often devalues them. Fuller views celibacy as a radical alternative to marriage, allowing women the freedom to focus on personal growth and societal contributions.

Frailty in this context refers to dominant societal perceptions and stereotypes of women’s vulnerability and weaknesses. Fuller challenges the traditional association of women with frailty, a notion popularized by Shakespeare’s line, “Frailty, thy name is Woman.” She expands this concept to include both genders, arguing that human frailty is not exclusive to women and should not be used as a justification for gender inequality. By reinterpreting “frailty,” Fuller critiques societal limitations on women and advocates for mutual growth and development, emphasizing the shared vulnerability of men and women.

Intellectual and spiritual freedom are the pursuit of knowledge, personal growth, and self-realization without societal restrictions. Fuller emphasizes the need for women to achieve intellectual and spiritual freedom, arguing that true equality requires more than superficial gains. This term reflects Fuller’s broader call for women to break free from traditional gender roles and seek autonomy, a theme that resonates throughout her text as central to achieving gender equality.

Intellectual companionship describes an ideal union where both partners meet "mind to mind" and share mutual respect (72). She defines this term in the context of marriage. This concept critiques traditional marriages based on emotional or economic dependency and emphasizes the importance of intellectual equality between spouses. Fuller views intellectual companionship as a key element of a balanced, respectful partnership and an essential step toward gender equality.

The concept of "liberty of law" refers to true freedom, which she defines as living in harmony with moral and natural laws rather than seeking superficial or temporary gains. For Fuller, liberty is not about escaping all restrictions but rather about fulfilling one’s potential within a framework of equality and justice. This term is central to her call for women’s rights, as she urges women to pursue deeper, more meaningful freedom that aligns with their purpose and societal progress.

Moral influence refers to women’s ability to inspire men through moral purity and devotion, often seen as their greatest power. While she highlights women’s spiritual strength or ability to serve as moral guides, she also critiques the idea that women’s worth is tied to their influence on men. This term reflects Fuller’s complex view of women’s moral influence, both as a source of power and a potential limitation that reinforces traditional gender roles.

“Old maids” is a term often used derogatorily to describe single women regarded as too old for marriage. Fuller redefines the term to highlight the potential for unmarried women to lead fulfilling and independent lives. Women who avoid traditional marital roles, according to Fuller, can cultivate self-reliance and contribute intellectually and spiritually to society. This positive reinterpretation critiques societal pressures to marry and validates a solitary life as one of purpose and growth.

The conventional notion of moral “purity” often equates a woman’s worth with her sexual virtue or adherence to traditional societal norms—a standard that men are often not held to in the same way. Fuller uses this term to critique societal hypocrisy. Fuller calls for men to be held to the same moral standards as women, arguing that unequal expectations harm both sexes. By redefining purity as a virtue for all, Fuller promotes a more balanced and just understanding of morality for both genders.

Religious marriage refers to a union grounded in mutual respect and a shared spiritual purpose. Unlike more utilitarian views of marriage, Fuller describes true partnership as involving not just emotional or intellectual connection but a joint spiritual journey. This concept reflects Fuller’s belief that gender equality within relationships is achievable when both partners are seen as equals in their moral and spiritual goals.

Self-reliance in this context refers to women developing emotional and intellectual independence. Fuller promotes self-reliance as essential for breaking free from societal constraints and allowing women to achieve personal growth and contribute meaningfully to society. This concept is central to the broader argument for women’s autonomy and societal progress.

Superficial power refers to the influence women wield through vanity, coquetry, and manipulation within traditional domestic roles. Fuller argues that this form of power is ultimately shallow and unfulfilling, as it fails to provide intellectual or moral freedom for women. By rejecting superficial power, she advocates for women to pursue deeper, more meaningful forms of influence aligned with personal growth and societal reform.