The Edo period, from 1603 to 1867 was for a long time viewed as a period of oppression for women, and this remained the mainstream message for a long time. Much of the information believed to be true, painted women in a way that worked to stagnant them. However, in recent years, publications have come to light, questioning this previous thinking. During the Taisho period from 1912 and 1926, and the Showa period from 1926 and 1989, the role of women, and their overall presence were easier to understand, due to the number of papers released on the topic. Much information, regarding the lifestyle and occupations of women has been written on those eras, showcasing various movements and changes, including an increase in social and political demands. This makes it easier for historians, and learners alike to get a grasp, or understanding of what the “modern woman”  in these eras exactly entailed.

 

On the other hand however, not as much information was presented on the topic of women in the late-nineteenth century. Much of the books and information published, were in fact, written by men who wished to control the narratives released as they pertained to women. Even in the event that there were women writers present, and part of the publishing process their works were often edited by men. Many women feared overstepping boundaries against their male counterparts. This perhaps, leads to further questions on the legitimacy of published work, and whether or not they function as a good representation of the respective time period. With that being said, there is much that is not talked about when it comes to the Meiji time period, and especially the women of that time.   

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What was the true reality like for women during the Meiji-time period?