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400 Years of Dolls: From Drudges to Helpmates to Heroines

Nathan Reed

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Published in America S Women: 400 Years Of Dolls Drudges Helpmates And Heroines (P S )

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Dolls have been a part of human culture for centuries, serving a variety of purposes and reflecting the changing roles of women in society. From humble beginnings as drudges and playthings, dolls have evolved into sophisticated helpmates and even heroines, mirroring the increasing empowerment and recognition of women throughout history.

Early Dolls: Drudges and Playthings

The earliest known dolls date back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, where they were made of wood, clay, or ivory. These dolls were often crudely fashioned and served primarily as playthings for children. However, they also had a practical purpose: they were used to teach girls about their future roles as wives and mothers.

America's Women: 400 Years of Dolls, Drudges, Helpmates, and Heroines (P.S.)

by Gail Collins

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1117 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	596 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

An Ancient Egyptian Doll Made Of Wood America S Women: 400 Years Of Dolls Drudges Helpmates And Heroines (P S )

As time went on, dolls became more elaborate and were used for a wider variety of purposes. In the Middle Ages, dolls were often used as teaching tools, with different parts of the body being removable to demonstrate anatomy. Dolls were also used as fashion models, with wealthy women dressing them in the latest styles.

Dolls as Helpmates

By the 18th century, dolls had become increasingly popular as helpmates for young girls. These dolls were typically made of porcelain or wax and were dressed in elaborate clothes. They were designed to teach girls about domestic skills such as sewing, cooking, and cleaning.

An 18th Century Porcelain Doll Dressed In Elaborate Clothes America S Women: 400 Years Of Dolls Drudges Helpmates And Heroines (P S )

Dolls also served as a source of comfort and companionship for young girls. In a time when childhood mortality rates were high, dolls could provide a sense of security and stability. They could also be used to act out different scenarios and help girls to develop their social skills.

Dolls as Heroines

In the 20th century, dolls began to take on a more active role in society. They were featured in popular culture, such as films and television shows, and they became increasingly associated with female empowerment. In the 1950s, Barbie was introduced as a fashion doll that promoted a glamorous and independent lifestyle.

A Barbie Doll Dressed In A Pink Dress America S Women: 400 Years Of Dolls Drudges Helpmates And Heroines (P S )

In the 1960s, the Cabbage Patch Kids were introduced as a more realistic and inclusive line of dolls. These dolls were designed to foster individuality and acceptance, and they quickly became one of the most popular toys in the world.

Today, dolls continue to play an important role in the lives of children. They provide companionship, comfort, and a sense of empowerment. They also reflect the changing roles of women in society, from drudges to helpmates to heroines.

Dolls have come a long way since their humble beginnings as drudges and playthings. Today, they are sophisticated and versatile toys that can teach children about a variety of topics, from domestic skills to female empowerment. Dolls also provide companionship, comfort, and a sense of security. They are a reflection of the changing roles of women in society, and they continue to play an important role in the lives of children.

America's Women: 400 Years of Dolls, Drudges, Helpmates, and Heroines (P.S.)

by Gail Collins

4.6 out of 5