Place and responsibilities of a woman in a Catholic family
as presented by the “Rodzina Polska” monthly (1927–1939) Cover Image

Miejsce i zadania kobiety w rodzinie katolickiej w przekazie miesięcznika „Rodzina Polska” (1927–1939)
Place and responsibilities of a woman in a Catholic family as presented by the “Rodzina Polska” monthly (1927–1939)

Author(s): Grzegorz Michalski
Subject(s): History, Social Sciences, Education, Sociology, Social history
Published by: Zakład Historii Edukacji w Instytucie Pedagogiki Uniwersytetu Wrocławskiego
Keywords: “Rodzina Polska” magazine; interwar Poland; woman in a Catholic family

Summary/Abstract: Aim. The purpose of the work is to select, from the wide range of issues raised in the “Rodzina Polska” (“The Polish Family”) monthly published by Stowarzyszenie Misyjne Księży Pallotynów (Missionary Association of Pallotines), an illustrated social and cultural magazine, the contents which reflect the idea of the role of a woman in a Catholic family presented by the editors. The research on “Rodzina Polska” used the method of contents analysis. Results. The results of the analyses led to the conclusion that the magazine saw women as mothers providing care and protecting health of their children, aware of many hazards which could disturb development of a child. They were also recognized as the first and the most important teachers, directing their children until maturity, ensuring that religious and moral values have taken root, and preparing the children to future family life. Women’s responsibilities also included running a household, which was supposed to ensure order, tidiness, peace, and harmony to all family members. Women’s lives did not translate only into their activities for the family. It was believed that women should be active in various organizations and associations, mainly Christian ones, and involve themselves in social work for those who need it. It was recognized that there is a need of further education for women which would enable themto do a profession. Gainful employment of some wives and mothers was not opposed; on the other hand, the need for such an arrangement was understood well. Conclusions. The “Rodzina Polska” periodical treated a woman as a person who, apart from her natural responsibilities resulting from the performed functions of a caring mother and a prudent housewife, should also realize her own needs. Therefore, the editors demonstrated their favourable opinion concerning women’s social work outside their home.

  • Issue Year: XVII/2018
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 101-115
  • Page Count: 15
  • Language: English, Polish