The feminine stereotype of modesty and innocence

The traditional idea of a woman fits into one word: pure. It is the identity they are forced to claim, and that has been widespread across countries and nations. The simple concept of modesty, once an equal term for respect and decorum, was hindered by the minds of white, european politicians, and turned it into a fearsome, monstrous weapon used again their own human identity. Of course, other things play a part, like Christianity, and the chemical compounds that create a motherly figure in the eyes of society. But the biggest contribution would be the misunderstanding of proper modesty.

The 1950’s is a great example showing the stereotypical innocence created for women. Traditional men valued their wives as at-home cherubs. To have beauty, purity, and submission, was the perfect woman those men could ask for. Yet even then, the image modesty was severely corrupted and even hypocritical. What was the perfect idea for a wife was never the consideration to a woman of color. She was dehumanized solely for her color, even if she practiced what American white men looked for. They wanted their image of modesty, not the true woman for herself. 

Even now, the definition of modesty has been tossed and turned around as society’s puppet for women. After so many years, it’ll be a long way for the feminine body to ever escape our society’s passed down stereotypes. And in time, would have time if that once ideal definition of modesty would ever strengthen or loosen the ties of its false, unequal, artificial creation.