The Story

This isn't a novel with a plot. Instead, it's a direct reprint of a series of articles that caused a major stir in Victorian England. In 1868, Eliza Lynn Linton, a successful writer herself, published an essay titled 'The Girl of the Period' in a popular magazine. She painted a scathing portrait of the young, urban, independent woman of her day. She criticized everything from their short hair and makeup to their desire for education and a life beyond just marriage.

The article exploded. It was reprinted everywhere and sparked letters, rebuttals, and conversations across the country. This book collects that original essay and the follow-up pieces where Linton doubled down on her views, defending traditional womanhood against what she saw as a shallow, selfish new model.

Why You Should Read It

Honestly, I picked this up out of historical curiosity and couldn't put it down. Linton's arguments are often maddening, but that's the point. Reading her complaints—that women are too loud, too focused on careers, not devoted enough to home life—feels like reading a comment section from 1868. It's a stark reminder that the 'culture wars' over women's behavior are nothing new.

The real insight for me was seeing a woman leading the charge against other women's progress. It makes you think about internalized norms and how society pits generations against each other. It's not a comfortable read, but it's a brilliantly clear window into the anxieties of a changing world.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone interested in women's history, social debates, or just a dose of historical drama. If you enjoy seeing where today's arguments come from, this is a must-read. It's also great for book clubs—there is so much to discuss! Fair warning: you will probably argue with the author in your head the whole time, and that's exactly why it's so valuable.