George Morant
Hints to Husbands: A Revelation of the Man-Midwife's Mysteries
"Hints to Husbands: A Revelation of the Man-Midwife's Mysteries" by George Morant is a provocative social critique written in the mid-19th century. The book boldly addresses the contentious practice of male midwifery, or "man-midwifery," asserting that it undermines women's modesty and health, while promoting a return to the more traditional and appropriate role of female midwives during childbirth. Morant aims to reveal the moral and practical implications of this practice, suggesting it is a societal evil that needs urgent reform. The opening of the text sets a serious and confrontational tone, where the author outlines his mission to expose the indecencies of the medical practices surrounding childbirth as performed by men. He laments that most men are unaware of the indignities their wives endure while under the care of male practitioners and critiques the culture that enables such practices. Morant's rhetoric is emotionally charged as he explores the historical roots of man-midwifery and argues that it has led to a degradation of women's dignity, calling for a collective awakening and movement against this 'pollution' of domestic life. The beginning lays the groundwork for a powerful exploration of gender roles, medical ethics, and personal dignity in the context of childbirth.