The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan
- 1. The Feminine Mystique, written by Betty Friedan and published in 1963, is a groundbreaking work that ignited the second wave of feminism in the United States and around the world. In this compelling and deeply analytical book, Friedan explores the pervasive sense of dissatisfaction and unfulfillment experienced by many women in the mid-20th century, who were largely confined to the roles of housewives and mothers, living in an idealized suburban setting. Through extensive research, interviews, and personal anecdotes, she critiques the societal norms and expectations that defined women's identities solely in terms of their domestic roles, coining the term 'the problem that has no name' to describe the profound unhappiness experienced by many women despite living in material comfort. Friedan argues that the idealization of femininity - as passive, nurturing, and dependent - not only stifles women’s ambitions and potential but also adversely affects their mental health and societal contributions. The Feminine Mystique challenges women to seek fulfillment outside traditional roles and encourages them to pursue education and careers, ultimately advocating for gender equality and the reevaluation of the roles women should aspire to in society. The book was pivotal in sparking dialogue and inspiring activism that led to significant changes in women's rights and gender roles in the following decades.
What year was 'The Feminine Mystique' first published?
A) 1958
B) 1972
C) 1969
D) 1963
- 2. According to Friedan, what did postwar American culture tell women was their primary source of fulfillment?
A) A college education
B) Political activism
C) Domesticity and motherhood
D) A professional career
- 3. What organization did Betty Friedan later co-found?
A) Planned Parenthood
B) The National Organization for Women (NOW)
C) The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
D) The League of Women Voters
- 4. What was a common result for women who fully embraced the feminine mystique, as described by Friedan?
A) A more active intellectual life
B) A sense of emptiness and depression
C) Increased social standing
D) Greater respect from their husbands
- 5. Friedan's work primarily focused on the experience of which group?
A) White, middle-class, suburban housewives
B) Working-class immigrant women
C) Rural farm women
D) African American women
- 6. What did Friedan propose as a solution to 'the problem that has no name'?
A) A return to traditional religious values
B) Meaningful work and education for women
C) Stronger prescription tranquilizers
D) More effective household appliances
- 7. According to Friedan, what did experts tell women who were unhappy in their domestic roles?
A) They were right to be unhappy
B) They needed to get a job
C) They were neurotic and unfeminine
D) They should have more children
- 8. What major world event did Friedan identify as a turning point that pushed women back into the home?
A) World War I
B) The Cold War
C) The end of World War II
D) The Great Depression
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