Gosh, how interesting... You've introduced me here to a point of view that hadn't crossed my mind before. It's something I shall have to give more thought.
I think I would agree with you that maybe ACD has a mixed view of the modern woman: he's an open-minded man but still a man of his time. (I do so love Violet Hunter in COPP - as you say, she's not there as a love interest (even though Watson hopes she will be for Holmes), she's almost an equal partner in the mystery with Holmes and Watson.) And I certainly wouldn't read SOLI as a story advocating the view that even the modern woman can't be independent - that she still needs the protection of men. Miss Smith is depicted as bold and spirited - she is never afraid of the man tailing her and she stands up to Holmes. She is simply doing the sensible thing by asking for assistance. And everyone needs help when it comes to being targeted by thugs.
I was watching the Granada episode of SOLI yesterday with my 14 year old nephew, and we were discussing the difference bicycles made to society at that time. Suddenly people who couldn't afford a horse and cart were able to travel long distances - gave them more choice in work and marriage. And I suppose it gave women a little more independence.
no subject
I think I would agree with you that maybe ACD has a mixed view of the modern woman: he's an open-minded man but still a man of his time. (I do so love Violet Hunter in COPP - as you say, she's not there as a love interest (even though Watson hopes she will be for Holmes), she's almost an equal partner in the mystery with Holmes and Watson.) And I certainly wouldn't read SOLI as a story advocating the view that even the modern woman can't be independent - that she still needs the protection of men. Miss Smith is depicted as bold and spirited - she is never afraid of the man tailing her and she stands up to Holmes. She is simply doing the sensible thing by asking for assistance. And everyone needs help when it comes to being targeted by thugs.
I was watching the Granada episode of SOLI yesterday with my 14 year old nephew, and we were discussing the difference bicycles made to society at that time. Suddenly people who couldn't afford a horse and cart were able to travel long distances - gave them more choice in work and marriage. And I suppose it gave women a little more independence.