Marriage as a Trade

Name: Marriage as a Trade
Author: Cicely Hamilton

By Cicely Hamilton

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Gender & Sexuality Studies Sociology

About This Book

The author analyzes wifehood and motherhood through an economic lens, treating domestic roles as a form of paid labor shaped by social and legal structures. Arguing that the conditions under which women enter family life influence their character and opportunities, she separates individual womanhood from marital and maternal attributes and critiques assumptions that women's identities are defined by men. The essay traces historical and social practices that render marriage a means of livelihood, examines consequences for mental, physical, and moral development, and calls for changes to improve women's economic independence and status within family and society.

About the Author

Cicely Hamilton

Cicely Hamilton was a British playwright, novelist, and suffragist, known for her contributions to early 20th-century literature and feminist discourse. Her works often explore themes of gender and societal norms, reflecting her advocacy for women's rights. Among her notable titles is "Marriage as a Trade," which critiques the institution of marriage and its implications for women. Hamilton's writing is characterized by its sharp wit and social commentary, making her a significant figure in the literary landscape of her time. She also authored "Theodore Savage: A Story of the Past or the Future" and "William—An Englishman," further showcasing her diverse literary talents.