"Sphere of Domesticity"

During the Civil War some women chose to act outside the "Sphere of Domesticity" while other women chose to stay within the traditional gender roles. During the Civil War women were meant to stay within the sphere. The sphere of domesticity is the social perception of what women are allowed and not allowed to do. Inside the sphere the women's time was occupied with activities such as staying home taking care of their home, sewing, cooking, and caring for her family. Outside of the sphere women took part in voting, participating in the war, going to the bar, and participating in political speeches.

A woman who had a major affect is Dorothea Dix. Dix was definitely considered out of the sphere of domesticity. She pushed for improvements in the military medical facilities and was appointed superintendent of all woman nurses. Dix greatly helped the condition of the establishments where injured soldiers were staying and the treatment they received.  Another significant women who did not stay within the walls of the sphere was Belle Boyd. Boyd was a very attractive young woman who was a spy for the confederate army. She had unconventional ways to get information; sometimes she dressed as a man to obtain some information, at other times Boyd acted flirtatious and obtained information using that tactic. Some woman didn't go outside of the sphere but still had an impact; the woman who did act out didn't want to stay home and watch what was going on. Those woman who acted out wanted to fight for what they believed in, whether it required them to dress as a man or act in a different way than normal since it was not socially accepted for them to contribute.

Above is the quilt square Will and I created on Dorothea Dix

G block Padlet: http://padlet.com/wall/gblockcivilwarquilt