For Love or Money

The snow has stopped. And my brother-in-law has gone to the grocery store to pick up dinner and beer. My sister and I just finished watching "Sense and Sensibility", a 1995 adaptation of Jane Austen's book directed by Ang Lee (of "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" fame). Austen wrote the book in the 1790s, though I understand it wasn't published until 1810. Strange to think that just 200 years ago women (of a certain class, at least) seemed to do little more than find ways to pass the time until a wealthy suitor came along. All their efforts seemed aimed at making them an attractive prospect, not accomplished women in their own right. (Of course, this still holds true in some circles).
In this world that Austen writes about, women's lives revolve around the men they hope to marry. And they aren't permitted to earn their own living, but must rely on the kindness of strangers, the inheritances of wealthy (male) relatives, or allowances from their husbands. And even a woman with good looks, personality and intelligence may lure a man only to lose him if she doesn't have a dowry as well. I'm glad we live in a time when women do not depend on men to earn a living, and so are free to marry for love. (Though I'm sensible enough to know that money still matters more than love for some--I'm just happy to know that I can earn both).