Who was the enigmatic female writer of the 19th century?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying a notable female writer from the 19th century who is characterized as a pioneering feminist, known for cross-dressing and having relationships with prominent men. The scope includes literary analysis and historical context.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about a female writer who fits the description of a feminist, dressed as a man, and had affairs with well-known men.
  • Another participant humorously suggests Michael Jackson, which is met with skepticism.
  • Louisa May Alcott is proposed by one participant, based on her autobiographical elements in "Little Women" and the character Jo.
  • George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) is suggested as a possible candidate by another participant.
  • George Sand is mentioned multiple times as a contender, noted for her relationship with Chopin and her practice of cross-dressing.
  • Susan B. Anthony is also mentioned, though one participant admits to having searched for information rather than having prior knowledge.
  • A participant expresses agreement with the suggestion of George Sand, reinforcing her relevance to the discussion.
  • A later reply references a biographical film about George Sand, highlighting her portrayal and the comedic elements of the film.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on a single figure, as multiple candidates are proposed, including Louisa May Alcott, George Eliot, and George Sand, indicating a variety of perspectives and uncertainty regarding the identity of the writer in question.

Contextual Notes

Participants rely on varying degrees of familiarity with historical figures and their contributions, leading to differing interpretations and suggestions. The discussion reflects a mix of personal insights and researched information.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in 19th-century literature, feminist history, or biographical studies of notable female writers may find this discussion engaging.

Soaring Crane
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Does anyone have a clue on . . .

Who is the woman writer of the 19th century who can be considered as the first real feminist, dressed as a man, and had several affairs with well-known men?

Thanks for any help.
 
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Michael Jackson?
 
You're joking, right?
 
Soaring Crane said:
You're joking, right?
tribdog never makes jokes.
 
My first guess would be Louisa May Alcott.

This guess is entirely based on Little Women, which is supposed to be autobiographical, and where Jo (who represents the author) is something of a tomboy.
 
Last edited:
Try George Elliot (Mary Ann Evans)
 
I would have guessed George Sand. (she dated Chopin and she cross-dressed)
 
Susan B. Anthony? I don't have a clue: I just searched 19th century first real feminist and that was one of the people I found something on.
 
I would have to agree with Math is Hard. I think it is George Sand.
 
  • #10
Evo said:
tribdog never makes jokes.
Thank you.
Just because I give wrong answers doesn't mean I like to be laughed at. I try so hard to be respected.
 
  • #11
Math Is Hard said:
I would have guessed George Sand. (she dated Chopin and she cross-dressed)

You are correct. There is a very enjoyable and funny biographical film about this, in fact, called "Impromptu." It is one of those movies that takes most of itself to build to a big joke. Judy Davis is great as Sand, and Hugh Grant plays Chopin.
 
  • #12
I wasn't laughing, tribdog. I was just, er, confused.
 

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