The Feminine Mystique
"The Feminine Mystique," written by Betty Friedan in 1963, critiques the idealized roles of women in post-World War II America. Friedan argues that many women were trapped in a cycle of suburban domesticity and unfulfilling lives, believing their identity and fulfillment came solely from being wives and mothers. She exposes this as a "mystique" that limits women's potential and choices. The book sparked discussions about women's rights and led to the second-wave feminism movement, advocating for greater equality and opportunities for women in education, career, and society at large.
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"The Feminine Mystique," published in 1963 by Betty Friedan, is a groundbreaking book that critiques the idea that women find fulfillment solely through homemaking and motherhood. Friedan argues that this societal expectation leads to widespread dissatisfaction among women, whom she describes as being trapped in a "mystique" that limits their potential. The book sparked the second wave of feminism in the United States, encouraging women to seek education, careers, and personal freedom, ultimately reshaping views on gender roles and contributing to the broader fight for women's rights and equality.