Gallery Three: Shaking Up Society

While each of these women received some measure of praise, there were also those who censured their actions. The achievements of these women - while beneficial to the advancement of society - posed a threat to the social order. Their activity had political implications that challenged the inequality of the sexes and the dominance of men. As capable rulers, warriors, and intellectuals, what "manly" virtues did they lack? As a defense strategy against this threat, some men undermined the character of these women by questioning their honor (chastity), deriding their contributions, or claiming divine credit for accomplishments with the woman as a mere tool. While today we largely recognize their contributions, detractors persist and it remains important to maintain a critical view of modern presentations of their lives and works.