The Blight of Respectability An Anatomy of the Disease and a Theory of Curative Treatment

"The Blight of Respectability" by Geoffrey Mortimer is a disapproving look at the idea of being proper and fitting in during the late 1800s. The book is a takedown of what society considers respectable, especially among middle-class people, and the author sees it as fake and damaging, stopping people from being themselves and moving forward. Mortimer strongly dislikes people who follow these norms, viewing them as roadblocks to being truly good and smart. The story starts by saying that the word "respectable" has been twisted to mean someone who isn't creative or real. He points out how being too respectable limits people, forcing them to follow what society expects instead of being who they really are. The writer uses examples from history and literature to show how respectability hurts both people and society, calling it a sickness that clouds minds and prevents culture and morals from getting better. He uses an emotional tone to criticize both men and women, but he especially focuses on how women are held back by these standards, which he believes crush their true selves and freedom.