The manifesto with which I identified most is the Introduction to the Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary Wollstencraft. I found it the most interesting in that it offered small insights to women's responsibility for their role and subsequent treatment in relationships. Wollstencraft initially mentions the dichotomous positions available of "alluring mistress" and "rational wives". She explains that the men would obviously prefer the former and strive to mold women to fill that role. However, the most important point is that the women do not fight it. As women we become comfortable in our roles as temporary lovers, or at least too comfortable to leave. Wollstencraft states is perfectly when she says, "women, intoxicated by the adoration which men, under the influence of their senses, pay them, do not seek to obtain a durable interest in their hearts". Our complacency shows men that we are satisfied with our positions. What right do we have to demand that men hold us of greater value when we show no desire for such and instead continue to devalue ourselves?
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