National Humanities Center
National Humanities Center: Toolbox Library: Cult of Domesticity: Catharine E. Beecher
A chapter from Catherine Beecher's book, "A Treatise on Domestic Economy for the Use of Young Ladies at Home and at School." Read how it contributes to the understanding of the American identity.
National Humanities Center
National Humanities Center: Toolbox Library: Cult of Domesticity: Fanny Fern: Fern Leaves From Fanny's Portfolio
Short periodical pieces that examine the complex and challenging roles that women found thrust upon them in mid-nineteenth century American culture. Discussion questions are provided.
National Humanities Center
National Humanities Center: Toolbox Library: Cult of Domesticity: Godey's Lady's Book, 1850
Published for much of the nineteenth century, Godey's Lady's Book provides a tapestry of differing images about the roles of women and of issues that concerned them. Discussion questions are provided.
National Humanities Center
National Humanities Center: Toolbox Library: Cult of Domesticity: Theodore Parker: Of the Function of Woman
A sermon by a Unitarian minister who argues that women have a positive role to play in American life and that isolating them within a domestic sphere loses the power of what they can contribute. Discussion questions are provided.