Core Concepts
Marriage has transitioned from a financial arrangement to a union based on love, challenging traditional views and roles within relationships.
Abstract
Marriage has evolved significantly throughout history, initially serving as a business deal to maximize financial stability. In ancient times, marriage united communities for economic benefits, with love being considered an unconventional reason for marriage. Gender inequality was prevalent in marriages during the Middle Ages, with women losing control over personal wealth and property rights. Children were viewed as assets expected to contribute to family businesses. Arranged marriages were common, with fathers deciding brides on the wedding day. The guild system in Europe mandated marriage for professional advancement. Women's financial value was linked to sexual purity, while male infidelity was widely accepted. The church promoted monogamy but lacked social reinforcement against polygamy.
As globalization and industrialization progressed in the 18th century, individuals gained more independence in choosing spouses based on emotions rather than finances. Love became a central aspect of marriage despite historical views that deemed it inappropriate for marital unions. The Victorian era saw a shift towards romantic partnerships influenced by mass media and cultural changes. Women navigated between rationality and emotions when selecting partners due to societal expectations.
The late 19th century brought about marriage manuals emphasizing love and mutual respect in relationships. Economic roles shifted between husbands and wives with the rise of factory labor, leading to separate spheres ideology where men dominated public life while women focused on domestic duties. As women gained educational and professional opportunities, marriage transformed into a source of emotional support and fulfillment rather than solely economic survival.
Despite these shifts towards emotional connections in marriages, legal definitions still revolve around financial aspects like income and inheritance rights. The debate over gay marriage highlights the economic benefits tied to legal marital status. As societal norms evolve, there is increasing acceptance of diverse marital models beyond traditional norms.
Stats
"France enacted its first marital edict in 1557, raising the age of majority to 25 for women and 30 for men."
"Good Housekeeping debuted in 1885."
"Women became less likely to tolerate horrible relationships than in the past."
"By the time that women won the right to vote, love had become inseparable from the concept of marriage."
Quotes
"Love was considered a reason not to get married."
"People saw their kids as pawns, literally."
"A man could afford to fall in love more than a woman could."
"The act is a just partition, not a gift."