Mary Wollstonecraft’s discussion of females’ roles in the economic sphere is primarily located in Chapter 13 of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. This section focuses on advocating for improved educational opportunities and professional avenues for women beyond traditional domestic roles. The chapter critiques the societal expectations that confine women to ornamental pursuits, thereby limiting their intellectual and economic independence.
The significance of Wollstonecraft’s argument lies in its challenge to the prevailing social structure of the late 18th century. She argues that limiting women’s access to education and meaningful labor not only harms individual women but also society as a whole. By denying women the opportunity to develop their talents and contribute economically, society loses a valuable resource. This perspective paved the way for future arguments supporting gender equality in education and the workforce.
