Continuing on the theme of change and modernity, this episode focuses on the evolution of gender expectations across the beginning of the Twentieth Century. In particular the episode charts the emergence of the “New Woman,” who began to behave in more masculine ways than her Victorian auntie: she was slender and athletic, was openly sexual, and lived for her own pleasure rather than the needs of her family. Most importantly, she also became a powerful consumer, frequenting department stores to buy things she wanted and to be attended to by men. The episode ends with a brief discussion of the fashion designer Coco Chanel, who in so many ways embodied this new ideal of femininity. Topics covered include: Intro (0:50), Victorian ideals of gender (17:12), the first feminists (26:36), the impact of the Great War (37:04), postwar political victories (51:27), woman as consumer (59:28), changes to marriage (1:06:44), and sexual behavior (1:14:57), and lastly Coco Chanel (1:24:37).
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“This original book brings a fascinating and accessible new account of the tumultuous history of sexuality in Europe from the waning of Victorianism to the collapse of Communism and the rise of European Islam…. the book investigates the shifting fortunes of marriage and prostitution, contraception and abortion, queer and straight existence. It analyzes sexual violence in war and peace, the promotion of sexual satisfaction in fascist and democratic societies, the role of eugenics and disability, the politicization and commercialization of sex, and processes of secularization and religious renewal.” (Amazon)
In this succinct monograph, Allen provides a thorough overview of women’s experiences across Twentieth Century Europe.