The social and charitable commitment of women in Transylvania between 1862 and 1944. Case study: the town of Reghin

Abstract

After 1848, the three nations of Transylvania created their own scientific-cultural “societies” which performed a politico-national function beyond the culture and organization of science. In this article, exemplified by the city of Reghin, we shall illustrate how these forms of scientific-cultural life manifested themselves.

The majority of the members of the two women’s associations – the “General Association of Protestant Women” and the “General Association of Benevolent Women” – stemmed from the middle classes. Since prior to universal suffrage after WW1 women had no voice in politics, joining an association dedicated to social issues allowed female members to extend their sphere of influence beyond the family, to participate in social movements, and therefore to exert a certain influence on public opinion as well as on the contemporary values of society.

Through their participation in associative activities, on the one hand, women showed great interest in vocational training and, on the other hand, they honoured their ecclesiastical and Christian obligations by caring for the poor and helping children.

The presidents of the General Association of Protestant Women were mostly wives of pastors who performed the simpler duties of the pastor, assisting him in charitable, social, and educational matters.

The beginning of the 20^th century changed the representation of women in Transylvania, giving them a new purpose, as opposed to the traditional image of the woman who took care of her family and the domestic economy. The modern woman, it was conceded, was still to be a mother and a housewife, but she also had to impersonate the athletic, musical and social ideals of her time.