Victorian Gender Roles

Victorian gender roles, prominent during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901), emphasized distinct duties for men and women. Men were seen as breadwinners, embodying strength and authority, while women were expected to focus on domestic life, nurturing children, and maintaining the home. Women were often idealized as virtuous and delicate, adhering to the "Angel in the House" concept. Education for women was limited, focusing on domestic skills rather than intellectual pursuits. These roles were reinforced by societal norms and legal restrictions, ultimately shaping the expectations of behavior, responsibility, and identity for both genders during this period.