Martin-Klumpp, Fuller/Alcott

I found Alcott’s “Behind a Mask, or A Woman’s Power” much more fun and satisfying to read than Fuller’s “Lawsuit.” However, in terms of the more feminist author, or should I say the author who pushes feminism better, Fuller takes the prize. The character of Jean Muir may take on the anti-hero’s role typically attributed to men, but she is only able to achieve her goals by characterizing herself as the nineteenth century feminine ideal. For example, she is introduced to the Coventry family as a young, nineteen-year old governess with graceful manners and abilities; everything that she does is towards the goal of gaining relative independence by marrying Sir John. While it is clear that Alcott is condemning the limited social options for women and the ridiculousness of the feminine ideal, Fuller is able to lay this out more politically; she is presenting a lawsuit first and foremost. Fuller, therefore, gains more attention than some “silly novella” that first and foremost entertains and then allows for analysis. Also, it is more likely that Alcott addresses a female audience, where such ideas might not be taken seriously by men due to the literary context, whereas Fuller addresses a male audience very seriously and directly. Fuller blatantly advocates the independence of women from dependence upon men, whether it be her father or husband. She speaks of the past, such as with Elizabeth I, and of the present, the bonds of slavery in relation to women. So in relation to these specific works, Fuller has the more promising argument and ability to present change into society.