The Story of the Old Woman in Candide: Analysis of Women's Role in 18th Century Europe

👑Women in 18th century Europe were valued primarily for their monetary and sexual worth, as depicted in the story of the old woman.

⛓️The old woman's experience as a slave highlights the lack of agency and freedom women had during that period.

🌍Voltaire subtly addresses racial issues in the chapter, portraying the discrimination faced by people of different skin tones.

💪The old woman and her mother's resilience in enduring hardships reflects the strength and fortitude of women in that era.

🤷‍♀️The old woman's acceptance of her societal role shows the normalized perception of women's devaluation in 18th century Europe.

How were women viewed in 18th century Europe?

—Women in 18th century Europe were primarily valued for their monetary and sexual worth, often disregarding their intellectual abilities and aspirations.

What challenges did the old woman face?

—The old woman endured the loss of her betrothed, the captivity of being a slave, and the brutalities of a pirate ship, highlighting the harsh realities faced by women during that time.

What racial issues are depicted in the chapter?

—Voltaire portrays racial discrimination in this chapter, depicting the torment of the young princess due to her olive dark skin and describing the pirate captain as an 'abominable negro.' Additionally, the warring Moroccans are described as black, brown, and mulatto.

What does the old woman's acceptance of her role signify?

—The old woman's acceptance of her societal role indicates the normalized perception of women's devaluation in 18th century Europe, where women were often judged solely based on their monetary and sexual worth.

What does the story of the old woman reveal about women in that era?

—The story of the old woman sheds light on the limited agency and freedom women had in 18th century Europe. It showcases the devaluation of women and the challenges they faced, emphasizing the need for societal change.

00:09The old woman in Candide tells the story of her life, highlighting the devaluation of women in 18th century Europe.

00:27The old woman's journey from being a princess to a slave sheds light on the challenges women faced during that time.

00:34The old woman's experience in Morocco and her battle against pirates showcases the lack of agency and freedom women had.

00:48Voltaire subtly addresses racial issues in this chapter, portraying discrimination based on skin color.

01:03The resilience and fortitude of the old woman and her mother reflect the strength of women in that era.

01:13The old woman's acceptance of her societal role reflects the normalized perception of women's devaluation in 18th century Europe.

01:27Voltaire highlights racial discrimination in the chapter, with descriptions of the princess's torment and the derogatory terms used.

01:36The story of the old woman reveals the limited agency and freedom women had in 18th century Europe, emphasizing the need for societal change.