What was the general expectation of women during the Renaissance period?

During the Renaissance period, the prevailing expectation for women focused on their roles within the domestic sphere, emphasizing their responsibilities as wives and mothers. Women were primarily seen as caregivers who managed the household and took care of children, embodying the ideal of the virtuous woman. This perspective was deeply rooted in the cultural and social norms of the time, which prioritized family life and domesticity over public or professional engagement.

Women's opportunities for education and involvement in public life were limited, and while some exceptions existed, they were primarily found in elite or noble classes. The majority of women, especially from the lower and middle classes, were confined to managing home affairs rather than pursuing academic careers or participating in warfare and politics. This societal framework illustrates why managing households was the general expectation of women during this era.