Expectations: The Pam Mendelsohn Collection of Instructive Books for Women 1790 - 1950

Instructional texts have been used in the ideal formation of girls and women since the late 13th century. Written from various perspectives, the following exhibition highlights informative publications during the Victorian Era and beyond available to women of all ages. Topics addressed include nearly every aspect of their physical, social, emotional and personal lives. What may come across as nonsensical was highly valued advice during the time of the book’s publication. The opinions expressed reflect the cultural attitudes of the general public and provide insight to the ubiquitous challenges that women have faced throughout history. Through the Pam Mendelsohn Collection of Instructive Books for Women, visitors can explore the standards women were expected to follow, as well as the unusual habits they were implored to take part in. The Linda Lear Center is thankful to Pamela Mendlesohn ‘66 for the invaluable donation of the instructive books for women to the center. We are also grateful to Peter E. Palmquist and Katy Marks for their contributions of the annotated bibliography.