The discourse on women’s education through the essays of the Bengali ‘Bhadramahila’ (1901-1947)/ বাঙালি ‘ভদ্রমহিলা’-র নারীশিক্ষা বিষয়ক প্রবন্ধচর্চা (১৯০১-১৯৪৭)

Abstract

In 19th-century Bengal, the seeds of modern women’s education were sown, though the purpose and methods were fraught with controversy. Most people expressed doubts about the necessity of women's education. Some demanded separate curricula for men and women, while others opposed higher education for women. While a few voices rose in protest against this conservative mindset, they were a small minority. This debate intensified in the 20th century, with the number of critics growing, though still unable to silence their opponents. It was at this time that the ‘Bhadramahila’ entered the discourse. Through essays in various periodicals, some, either openly or under pseudonyms, echoed the patriarchal view that education’s sole purpose was to prepare women for a better domestic life. However, not all women’s voices were so constrained. They challenged the notion that education was merely for becoming a good wife or mother, instead advocating for education as a means of acquiring knowledge. Some even argued that it should enable women to become financially independent. They actively sought out and promoted institutions where girls could receive a quality education. This essay, by analyzing the articles written by these ‘Bhadramahila’ in the 20th century, documents their diverse and evolving thoughts on women’s education.