The Glory of Woman: Prescriptive Literature, 1840 - 1849

Abell, L. G., Mrs. The Skilful Housewife's Book; or, complete guide to domestic cookery, taste, comfort and economy. New York: D. Newell, [1846]. E 12mo #6152

This slim volume addresses "the science of life" in its moral, physical, and economic aspects. Includes medical information, moral hints, gardening tips, parenting advice, and 659 recipes. C, D, H, MO, R

American Lady. A Hand-Book of Etiquette for Ladies. New York: Leavitt and Allen, 1847. E 12mo #6028

A tiny volume with dozens of tips on dress, conversation, parties, dining, correspondence, and servants. E, F, M, SR

Arthur, Timothy Shay. Advice to Young Ladies on their Duties and Conduct in Life. Boston: Phillips and Sampson, 1848. E #19425

"Right modes of thinking are the basis of all correct action. This [is] a most important truism, and one which every young lady should regard as the foundation upon which her whole character should be laid." E, F, H, M, R

Dixon, Edward H. Woman and Her Diseases, From the Cradle to the Grave... New York: Charles H. Ring, 1848. E 12mo #6190

Advocating the idea that "woman should be instructed in the laws of her own existence," Dixon examines the causes, symptoms, and treatment of women's health problems. H

Fowler, Orson Squire. Love and Parentage, Applied to the Improvement of Offspring... New York: Fowler and Wells, 1844. E 12mo #6178

"We are under a moral obligation...to become parents, and thus fulfill this high function, this exalted destiny of us all; nor can they attain the perfect stature of men and women, who do not." H, M, MO, S

Fry, Caroline. A Word to Women; the love of the world, and other gatherings. Philadelphia: Carey & Hart, 1840. LSC 170 W747W

A "collection of short pieces" with a Christian perspective on women's conduct, social role, and education. E, ED, R

Godey's Lady's Book [serial]. Philadelphia: L.A. Godey, 1844. E Pam qG579M, v.29 no.9) Library has: v.26-27; v.29 no.9; v.40-43; v.55-56; v.58-60; v.62-77.

This magazine contains beautiful engravings, sheet music, poetry, and fiction, including The Oblong Box by Edgar Allan Poe. N, PA

Hawes, Joel. A Looking-Glass for Ladies, or, The Formation and Excellence of the Female Character. Boston: William D. Ticknor, 1845. E Pam 12mo #7089

This essay written by a Connecticut pastor examines the characteristics and influence of a "virtuous woman" and discusses the "inspired standard of female excellence." E, ED, M, MO, R

The Mother's Guide in Physical Education: or, prevention better than cure. Greenfield, Mass.: Merriam & Mirick, 1846. E M918G

The author argues that children should be "taught to act the part of wisdom - to prefer health to pleasure - and intellectual enjoyment, to sensual gratifications." H, MO

Webster, Thomas. An Encyclopaedia of Domestic Economy. New York: Harper & Brothers, 1848. LSC 640 W384E

This "invaluable compendium of useful knowledge, on subjects which intimately relate to domestic happiness" contains nearly 1,000 engravings. C, D, H, SR

Subject Guide

Throughout this bibliography, these subject letter codes are used to identify works relating to a particular topic. The guide is displayed at the bottom of each page.