Let’s reflect on a time seemingly eons ago, yet within the memory of many, where the role of women in society was perceived differently, mainly through a western lens.
Derived from a Home Economics text in a 1950s American literature titled “Tips to care for your spouse”, be prepared to marvel at these past societal norms.
The first advice it offers addresses the importance of having dinner organised: “Plan in advance, perhaps even the evening before, to have a delicious feast ready. This signifies that you’ve been contemplating about him and are concerned about his necessities.”
Following this, it recommends: “Take a quarter hour break to rejuvenate yourself before his arrival. Reapply your make-up, tie up your hair with a ribbon and appear fresh. Since he has spent his day amongst fatigued colleagues, be somewhat cheerful and engaging. His mundane day might require a boost. But let’s swiftly move on from here.”
Further, it mentions the necessity for a neat and orderly environment, devoid of the potential disturbances from a washing machine or a vacuum. Children are to be neat and quiet, and your husband should be greeted with a sincere smile.
However, there’s no room for discord or grievances. “Keep your complaints to yourself if he’s tardy for dinner. Consider his delay inconsequential compared to his potentially arduous day.” The advice suggests providing him with a relaxing chair or encouraging a lie-down in the bedroom, and speak in a soothing and gentle tone.
“Even though you may have discussions pending,” it instructively notes, “let him speak first.” And “never protest if he fails to take you to a delightful dinner or leisure spots. Instead, strive to empathise with his stressful world.”
His dwelling should be “A space for your spouse to rejuvenate physically and mentally.”
How then did we veer so far from this perception of society, gentlemen?
The term “history”, derived from the Latin word “historia” and the Greek equivalent, translates to a “tale of bygone happenings”.