Women and the Enlightenment

As europe transitioned from feudalism to commercialization, men established guilds that monopolized lucrative ventures and locked women out. Men's dominance was entrenched by a plethera of fraternal orders in government, the judiciary, religion, medicine and universities. Vunerable women with far weaker social capital struggled to protect themselves from persecution as competing catholic and protestant churches sought to demonstrate their superior power topo protect people from witchcraft. They burnt women in their thousands. The enlightenment heralded great transformation. Europe and north america became more scientific, secular and democratic. Inventors, entrepaneurs and artisans thronged to discuss great discoveries. As piers praised he innovation