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Motherhood and the Relationships of the Sexes

Written by C. Gasquoine (Catherine Gasquoine) Hartley

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About this book

"Motherhood and the Relationships of the Sexes" by C. Gasquoine Hartley is a socio-philosophical examination written in the early 20th century. The book discusses the concept of motherhood, the evolving roles of women, and the relationships between the sexes in the context of societal changes brought about by the Great European War. Hartley's writing suggests a deep exploration of the maternal instinct and its implications on race and civilization, emphasizing the critical role of mothers in shaping future generations. The opening of the work reflects on the historical context of women’s rights leading up to the war and examines how the conflict profoundly shifted women's positions and their struggle for political recognition. Hartley argues that women’s fight for liberation had intensified emotions that led to a reactionary state, suggesting that the war forcefully highlighted the need for women to embrace their maternal instincts and responsibilities. She presents a dual perspective on motherhood, viewing it as both a natural instinct and a social obligation that requires renewed focus and respect, especially in light of the pressing issues of child welfare and maternal health that emerged during the war years.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Motherhood and the Relationships of the Sexes, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • advanced
  • analytical
  • reflective
  • didactic

C. Gasquoine Hartley's "Motherhood and the Relationships of the Sexes" is an early 20th-century socio-philosophical treatise examining the concept of motherhood and evolving gender roles in the wake of the Great European War. Hartley delves into the maternal instinct, positing it as crucial for race and civilization, and emphasizes the mother's pivotal role in shaping future generations. The book reflects on the pre-war women's rights movement, arguing that the conflict intensified societal emotions, leading to a reactionary state where women's maternal responsibilities gained renewed focus. Hartley advocates for a dual view of motherhood as both a natural drive and a vital social obligation, particularly highlighting the urgent need for attention to child welfare and maternal health issues exacerbated by the war.

“"The Great European War, in its profound reordering of society, has forcefully illuminated the inescapable truth: the future of our race rests upon the shoulders of our mothers."”

Key themes

Motherhood as Instinct and Obligation
Hartley explores motherhood from a dual perspective: as a powerful, innate biological instinct (the 'maternal instinct') and as a crucial social responsibility. She argues that this instinct is fundamental for the survival and progress of 'race and civilization,' making motherhood a paramount societal obligation, especially in the post-war context where population decline and societal rebuilding were pressing concerns.
The Impact of War on Gender Roles
The Great European War serves as a pivotal historical backdrop, fundamentally altering the societal landscape and perceptions of women's roles. Hartley analyzes how the war, while initially opening up new opportunities for women in the workforce, ultimately led to a re-emphasis on their traditional, particularly maternal, functions due to demographic concerns and a societal 'reactionary state.'
Women's Liberation and Societal Expectations
Hartley grapples with the burgeoning women's rights movement and the desire for liberation, juxtaposing it with prevailing societal expectations and her own arguments for the primacy of maternal duties. She suggests that the intensity of the fight for liberation led to an emotional state that, post-war, necessitated a re-evaluation, steering women back towards embracing their 'essential' roles.

Worth discussing

How does Hartley's analysis of the impact of WWI on women's roles resonate or conflict with contemporary understandings of wartime's effect on gender dynamics?

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