The Girl of the Period, and Other Social Essays, Vol. 1 (of 2)

"The Girl of the Period, and Other Social Essays, Vol. 1" by E. Lynn Linton is a series of essays that scrutinize 19th-century culture by examining the evolving position of women. The writing dives into concepts of womanhood, maternal duties, and the norms pushed onto women by society, using a critical lens to explore the shift between the cherished image of women from earlier times, and the women of the present, who are shown as immodest. Linton focuses on the differences between the once-held image of English women—represented by their humility, focus on the home, and strong morals—and the modern woman, seen as frivolous and too focused on how they look and are viewed. Through her writings, Linton expresses that current trends have damaged traditional womanly qualities, causing moral decline. Linton worries women now value luxury and the public eye over inner goodness, therefore damaging relationships and society.