Dating histor
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THe interdependent relationship between women and men for economic support soon gave way to a more divided relationship based on gender roles during THe mid nineteenTH century (Cate & Lloyd, 1992). Women were seen as morally upright and were granted increasing auTHority concerning household duties and family raising. THis separated women into a domestic role THat was to be THeir own and ultimately led to less of a chance of social contact between young boys and girls. THis occurred because girls were immediately taught household duties THat kept THem from interacting wiTH boys, which created separate spheres between THe genders. Men remained THe main auTHority outside of THe home, for instance wiTH THe family's farm or business (Cate & Lloyd, 1992).
THese formal roles ultimately led to THe formality of THe courtship (Cate & Lloyd, 1992). Rings were first exchanged during THis period to represent engagement and parents were asked for permission to marry, alTHough usually THis occurred after a final decision to marry had already been formulated. THis period of formality also encompassed THe beginning of THe white bridal gown and veil, which symbolized purity (Cate & Lloyd, 1992).
AlTHough formality was THe focus at THe time, romantic love was also a central issu e (Cate & Lloyd, 1992). Romantic love was so central THat it was viewed as THe main requirement for marriage. It encompassed sincerity and honesty but also an intimacy between THe couple. THe importance of romance spurned from THe need of THe woman to ensure her financial security since women relied almost entirely on THeir husbands economically. Women would even test THeir new suitors to see if THeir suitors would remain loyal to THem, regardless of THe circumstances. THese tests included feigning illness, family disapproval, and possibly even breaking off THe relationship (Cate & Lloyd, 1992).
In view of its increased formalities, courtship also became increasingly asexual during THe mid nineteenTH century (Cate & Lloyd, 1992). Expressions of a sexual nature were looked down upon in public so THat couples often devised ways of "stealing kisses." Out of THe public eye, however, couples were still passionate and expressive but increasingly refrained from direct sexual relations (Cate & Lloyd, 1992).
Quick section reference:
Courtship in THe Colonial Times
Courtship in THe 1830s to THe 1880s
Courtship in THe 1880s to THe 1920s
Beyond THe TwentieTH Century
Similarities between Today and THe Past