Eloquent Rebellion

            Though I have strongly associated with many sophistic tendencies up to this point, I like Astell’s perspective on style and clarity.  While the Sophists rely on the tools of philosophy and rhetoric as fuel for clarity in teaching future rhetoricians, Astell “believes that one can pick up the grammar and spelling of one’s native language mostly from reading good books.”(845) Clarity and brevity take precedence for Astell, and I agree with her that these conversational elements can be acquired simply by being an observant member of society. 

            Much like Margaret Fell, Astell uses religion as a tool for justification in her writings, however Astell has more of a voice of genuine concern toward her sex, whereas Fell employs a crusade-like voice.  Astell empowers the reader through pathetic appeal concerning the quality of a life, stating, “It is one thing to be content with Ignorance, or rather with a less degree of Knowledge, on account of the Station that GOD has plac’d us in, and Another to Chuse and Delight in’t thro a Stupid Carelessness, a fear of Trouble, or an Inordinate pursuit of the Cares and Pleasures of this Mortal Life” (859).  This is eloquent rebellion in a fine state, and I read this quote as, “We will most definitely get into trouble if we intend to live our lives to the fullest.”  In juxtaposition to my caring vs. crusade categorization, this quote from Astell really kicks off the feminist movement, and speaks honestly to the fears that must be acknowledged on this trying path. 

            As a side note, I did some extra research on Astell, and it’s a bummer we got such a short snippet of her writings.  She is responsible for a lot of smart pondering points concerning fairness among the sexes.  Some of my favorites:

“If all men are born free, how is it that all women are born slaves?” (Reflections Upon Marriage)

“What poor Woman is ever taught that she should have a higher Design than to get her a Husband?” (Reflections Upon Marriage)

“Women are from their very infancy debarred those Advantages with the want of which they are afterwards reproached.” (Book 1 of Serious Proposal)

“If God had not intended that Women shou’d use their Reason, He wou’d not have given them any, ‘for He does nothing in vain.’” (Christian Religion)