Essay Questions

Does ingrained prejudice against women emerge as one of the main themes in the novel?

One of the main issues Schwartz focuses on in this novel is misogyny from the 18th to 20th centuries. Schwartz uses many storylines expressed in diminutive episodes to explore the patriarchal systems intentionally designed to disadvantage women. For instance, it is easy for the reader to note that these patriarchal systems were meant to make women subordinate to men in all aspects of life. Schwartz illustrates her point by using examples of Josephine Baker and Rina Faccio, among other prominent women in history, to show how they were oppressed by patriarchal systems whenever they tried to cross the line. For instance, women who tried exploiting their potential were denied education and freedom of choice.

What is the emblematic meaning of Rina’s mother pluming her dress upwards without saying any word?

In the 18th century, women were obliged not to talk negatively about men. Rina’s mother knew that they were living in a world where men dominated and they could do anything to women without question. When Rina’s mother warned her wordlessly by pluming her dress upwards, she meant that if she was not careful, she could be raped and forced to marry the rapist. While working in her father's factory, Rina was not bothered by a man who circled her. The man raped her, and it is at this point she remembered her mother’s wordless warning. Rina’s father later forced her to get married to the man who raped her because that is what traditions in Italy dictated.

How significant was Anna Kuliscioff in shaping feminism in the 18th century?

Anna was born in Ukraine, and as soon as she matured, she started questioning the authority of boys and men to oppress women and dominate everything. In her early days, Anna started explaining to fellow women the significance of humanity, dignity, and standing for their rights. Anna's strict principles about women's rights landed her in trouble with Ukrainian authorities, and she was forced to leave with a fake passport to Switzerland. When she arrived in Switzerland, she was arrested when she tried to get a job in a secretive printing company. Later, Anna went to France, where she continued to champion women's rights, but she later got expelled from the country by the authorities. Anna did not give up because she traversed across Europe, educating women about their rights, which landed her in problems with authorities. In the early 1880s, Anna went against all odds to enroll in a medical course. She graduated in 1886 with a degree in medicine to become the first pathological specialist in Europe. Therefore, Anna is a pillar of feminism because she dedicated most of her life to educating women about their rights. Anna was arrested several times, but she did not give up. At last, she demonstrated that even women could study at the university and get good grades.