Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe: Plight of Women in 17th & 18th Century

Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe

(Plight of Women in 17th & 18th Century)

Q. Write a note on Defoe’s depiction of the plight of women in Moll Flanders.

Answer: In Daniel Defoe's novel "Moll Flanders," the author portrays the plight of women in the 17th and 18th century. Moll Flanders is a woman who faces numerous challenges in her life, including poverty, societal expectations, and gender inequality.

Throughout the novel, Moll Flanders is depicted as a victim of circumstance, forced to rely on her beauty and wits to survive in a society that offers few opportunities for women. As a young girl, she is orphaned and sent to live with a family that treats her poorly. She is then forced into a life of prostitution, which she sees as her only option for survival.

Defoe's portrayal of Moll's experiences highlights the limited choices available to women during this time period. Women were often seen as property to be traded and sold, and their social status was determined by their marital and economic situation. Women were expected to be obedient, chaste, and submissive, and those who did not conform to these ideals were often punished or ostracized.

Moll's relationships with men also highlight the power dynamics between men and women during this time period. She is often manipulated and exploited by the men in her life, who use her for their own purposes and then abandon her when she is no longer useful to them.

Defoe's depiction of the plight of women in "Moll Flanders" also highlights the economic realities of women during this time period. Women were often left in poverty due to societal expectations and limited opportunities for employment. Moll Flanders' experiences demonstrate how women were forced to rely on their beauty and wits to secure a husband or financial support.

Additionally, the novel shows how women who were not of noble birth were often denied access to education and opportunities for social advancement. Moll Flanders' lack of education and social status is evident in her limited vocabulary and struggles to navigate societal norms.

Defoe also highlights the double standards applied to men and women during this time period. Men were often able to engage in sexual relationships with multiple partners without facing the same societal repercussions as women. Moll Flanders is judged harshly for her sexual relationships and considered a fallen woman, while the men in her life are not held to the same standard.

In conclusion, Defoe's depiction of the plight of women in "Moll Flanders" is a powerful critique of the gender inequality and societal expectations of the 17th and 18th century. Through Moll's experiences, Defoe shows the limited opportunities available to women and the societal constraints that shaped their lives. His novel remains a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by women throughout history and the ongoing fight for gender equality.

Overall, Defoe's depiction of the plight of women in "Moll Flanders" is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by women during this time period. Through Moll's experiences, Defoe shows the limited opportunities available to women and the societal expectations that constrained their lives.

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