Women and men traditionally occupied very
different spheres during the Restoration Era in England. The government, economy, military, and
the arts were primarily dominated by men. In fact, it is likely that the Female
Tatler was written by men as well as women, though it is presented from a woman's
perspectivethat of the imaginary Mrs. Crackenthorpe, a Lady that knows every
thing.
One advantage to presenting the female perspective is that
it attracts female readers. Although limited in many ways, educated upper-class women still had
their own money to spend, and they wished to be entertained. The Female
Tatler fulfilled this need by providing articles in a witty tone on subjects that
appealed to the female audience.
In addition, while men could be expected to
remain somewhat serious and attuned to the events of the time, a "women's publication"
could allow itself to be frivolous. Funny, lighthearted articles were welcome, such as pieces on
gossip, fashion, and beauty, and amusing stories. This is not to say that all the articles were
shallow or without relevance; "Mrs. Crackenthorpe" also tackles such weighty issues as
marriage, suggesting that women wait until they are older and ready to marry. In addition, she
offers articles on the value of education for women.
All of this is more
compelling for readers, especially female readers, when written by one of their own. That is the
real advantage of writing from a woman's persona during the Restoration
Era.
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