A Woman's Place in Society

Throughout the novel, a woman's place is discussed. Even in the present (the 1960's), Celia is expected to be a loving, devoted wife. She is not supposed to have a job, but instead support Richard's endeavors. She has to maintain his home, as well as entertain other people so that Richard's career and social standing advance . The husband is judged by the wife's domestic performance and credited with its success or failure. Celia goes to school and becomes educated because it is desirable for one's wife to be intelligent at social gatherings and in front of one's business partners, not so that she can advance her own career.

In the 1550's, a woman's place is even more undesirable. This is particularity shown through Celia's character as well as Lady Ursula. When Celia is widowed, she is left penniless and without options. It is assumed...