Genre:

Letter, Spoof, Serial

Subjects:

Gender, Education, Politics, Medical Practitioners, Universities, Domestic Economy

    Addressed to Judiana, this letter reflects on the developments in women's education and the role of women in society, and defends the 'Rights of Men'. Mrs Punch tells her daughter of her relief that she is not writing the letter 'fifty years hence', when the reforms of John S Mill and others will have lead to 'young ladies' becoming 'M.A.'s and M.D.'s, and Curates and Barristers, and Members of Parliament'. Denies that 'the study of Greek and Algebra' will 'make ladies better housekeepers and financiers than they are now'. Upholds the virtues of the present system of female education, in which women learn such activities as singing, dancing, and the ability to 'discuss with knowingness every topic of the day'. Also explains her advocacy of the 'Rights of Men'. (7)