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18th Century London The Literary Salon The Bluestocking Circle Bluestocking Members Writing & Print Culture About the Project
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Writing As Vehicle

Writing became an important vehicle for the discussion of cultural themes for several reasons. Writing itself was an introspective process, providing ability to access and promote the true, subjective self, that could be made external. The central themes of the cultural revolution, including changes in domesticity, civil society and national community, were often best expressed in the well-written discourse of the intellectuals of the day. Writings provided explanations and examples of values, images, and interests of revolutionary classes and followers and allowed for the greater dissemination of certain controversial themes.

Writing gave individuals in 18th century London the opportunity to express their voice, regardless of its message. This became increasingly important at this time, due to the constant changes that were running rampant in this society. As women were also fighting for their identity, their participation in the dissemination of these ideas and materials was extremely important; they could align themselves with a movement that was supportive of their desires and assist others in gaining the rights and equality they sought. Many of the works of Bluestocking writers were constructed with these concerns in mind - they tackled a lot of important issues, such as education reform, gender constructs, social and class systems, government criticism, and political events. Their works provide an important and balanced glimpse into the day's events and problems.