Desirable Traits in Women

Author Michelle Ann Abate stated that, in nineteenth-century American culture, the usage of the word tomboy came to refer to a specific code of conduct that permitted young girls to exercise, wear “sensible clothing”, and to eat a “wholesome diet”. Because of this emphasis on a healthier lifestyle, tomboyism quickly grew in popularity during this time period as an alternative to the dominant feminine code of conduct that limited women's physical movement. Abate stated that this mode of behavior was planned to enhance the power and durability of the country's coming brides and child-bearers and the progeny that they birthed. She said that tomboyism was more than a new fostering method or gender statement for the country's young women; it was also a way to improve the genetic quality of the human population and at least a way to assert white racial supremacy. (4) 394 YOU AND HEREDITY DESIRABLE TRAITS IN WOMEN SOCIALLY: Beauty first Delicate features No “deep” intellect Vivaciousness Slim figure Tiny waist Small hips Dainty wrists and hands Slender, soft tapering limbs Slim ankles Tiny feet EUGENICALLY: Important Delicate features High intelligence Seriousness Sturdy figure Ample waist Broad hips Sturdy wrists, strong hands Solid, sturdy limbs and ankles; good-sized feet

The image juxtaposes a historical passage praising tomboyism as healthier and potentially eugenic with a satirical textbook-style comparison of supposedly desirable female traits. The left column presents fragile, traditionally feminine traits, while the right shows a muscular woman with traits labeled as stronger and more intellectually capable. The joke comes from exposing the contradiction and absurdity of judging women through social and eugenic standards, often used as a reaction to outdated beauty ideals or pseudo-scientific gender claims. EN: The image juxtaposes a historical passage praising tomboyism as healthier and potentially eugenic with a satirical textbook-style comparison of supposedly desirable female traits. The left column presents fragile, traditionally feminine traits, while the right shows a muscular woman with traits labeled as stronger and more intellectually capable. The joke comes from exposing the contradiction and absurdity of judging women through social and eugenic standards, often used as a reaction to outdated beauty ideals or pseudo-scientific gender claims.

• @eternalclassic / 18274 2022-08-25