Social Etiquette: Wives were expected to behave with grace and modesty, speak politely, and dress according to the time’s fashion, including long dresses, corsets, and hats.
Domestic Roles: Wives managed the household, including cooking, cleaning, and child-rearing, and supported their husbands at social events, helping maintain their social standing.
Social Participation: Wives attended social gatherings, charity events, and church functions, reflecting their roles in community life and philanthropy.
Gender Roles: Wives were expected to be submissive to their husbands and maintain a good reputation, avoiding behavior that could bring shame to the family.
Cultural Variations: Expectations varied by region and social class, with urban areas focusing on social appearances and rural areas emphasizing practicality.
Emerging Roles: Toward the late 1900s, women’s involvement in the suffrage movement and public life began to challenge traditional roles, as more women pursued education and work.
Family Values: Wives were expected to demonstrate devotion to family and marriage, often appearing as supportive partners to their husbands in public life.
These roles reflect broader changes in gender expectations and societal structures over time.
