5/17/24 Madrid: Concepción Arenal

     Today we visited Concepción Arenal's memorial. Concepción Arenal was Spanish feminist and social reformist and advocated for women. During her time, education for women was limited, so she attended law lectures at the University of Madrid disguised as a man. Arenal not only advocated for women, but for prisoners. She was an inspector of women's prisons and fought for better prisoner treatment and improvement in punishments. She was an excellent writer and even won a literary contest under her son's name. She was a great example of a woman fighting for her place in society and helping those who are in need.

    Concepción Arenal left a huge impact on society. She advocated for women's rights in an era that did not value women or their role in contributing to society. She defied rules and snuck into university, showing just how much she cared about education. This helped lay the foundation for feminist work in Spain. Her pursuit of knowledge is an example to all. She showed just how capable women are and her literary pieces proved it. Her efforts to help prisoners also had a great effect on Spain. She campaigned for more humane treatment of prisoners as well as reform on sentencing and punishments. 

    Concepción Arenal has been commemorated, but I think there is room for improvement. We visited her monument in Madrid, and Professor Hegstrom did mention that the location for her statue was not ideal. It was located on the outskirt of the town. There is not much foot traffic around her memorial, only a mere running path. I assume that most locals and tourists would miss her. I also think a plaque with information about her would really add to the memorial. I think it would spark dialogue and be an educational tool in teaching spectators about her work and achievements as she was an incredible woman.



Comments

  1. Molly BryantMay 19, 2024 at 2:55 PM

    Great blog post Laynee! I agree with you that she could definitely be commemorated better. I love how you brought light to the struggles she had to face. Having to dress like a boy in order to attend school is so unfortunate. I am so thankful that this obstacle is no longer in place. Both of us are able to attend school without having to hide who we are!

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