Notwithstanding the obvious bias towards masculinity, the essay is a buried gem for anyone who is interested in the motivations and beliefs of the pioneers of work with girls and young women. With some subtlety, Montagu argues that many girls are not able to achieve their full potential because the circumstances of their working lives devalue their femininity.
The female labour market is the root source of their under-education, the basis for their inferior status in the home and the reason for their inability to make good use of their leisure time.
While she hints at the significance of the lack of industrial organisation among girls, Montagu asserts the possibilities of change through education in which girls' clubs might play an important role. Clubs provide opportunities for gaining practical skills, fostering creativity and self-respect.
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