Boston marriage definitions
| Word backwards | notsoB egairram |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The part of speech of the word "Boston marriage" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | Bos-ton mar-riage |
| Plural | The plural of the word "Boston marriage" is "Boston marriages." |
| Total letters | 14 |
| Vogais (4) | o,a,i,e |
| Consonants (7) | b,s,t,n,m,r,g |
Boston marriage refers to a living arrangement between two women who choose to live together and share a household. This term originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time when it was not socially acceptable for unmarried women to live independently. Instead, women who were in close, long-term relationships but did not have a formal marriage ceremony often opted to live together in what became known as a Boston marriage.
These relationships were characterized by emotional intimacy, financial interdependence, and a commitment to supporting each other in a society that limited women's independence. While not all Boston marriages were romantic or sexual in nature, many of them involved a deep emotional bond and a shared life together.
Origins of the Term
The term "Boston marriage" is believed to have originated in Henry James's novel The Bostonians, published in 1886. In the novel, two women form a close relationship and decide to live together without getting married. This fictional portrayal of a Boston marriage brought the concept into the public consciousness and inspired other women to pursue similar living arrangements.
Social and Cultural Context
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women faced significant limitations on their autonomy and opportunities. Many women were unable to own property, obtain higher education, or pursue careers outside of traditional roles such as wife and mother. In this context, Boston marriages offered women a way to live independently, pursue their interests, and support each other emotionally and financially.
While Boston marriages were often viewed with suspicion or curiosity by society, they provided a sense of belonging and partnership for many women who felt constrained by the expectations placed on them. These relationships allowed women to create a space where they could live authentically and support each other in a world that did not always value their contributions.
Legacy and Modern Interpretations
Today, the concept of a Boston marriage continues to resonate with many people as a model of intimate companionship and mutual support. While societal attitudes towards relationships and gender roles have evolved since the 19th century, the idea of two individuals choosing to build a life together outside of traditional marriage remains powerful and relevant.
In contemporary society, Boston marriages are seen as a symbol of the enduring bonds that can exist between people, regardless of their gender or marital status. Whether romantic, platonic, or somewhere in between, these relationships demonstrate the importance of companionship, solidarity, and shared values in creating a fulfilling life together.
Boston marriage Examples
- Mary and Jane decided to enter into a Boston marriage to share a household and expenses.
- In the early 20th century, Boston marriage was a common way for women to live independently.
- Some historians believe that the famous authors Emily Dickinson and Susan Gilbert entered into a Boston marriage.
- The term Boston marriage is often used to describe a close, long-term relationship between two women.
- My great aunts lived together for 50 years in what many would call a Boston marriage.
- Sarah and Rachel decided to have a commitment ceremony to celebrate their Boston marriage.
- Boston marriage was a term used in the past to provide cover for same-sex relationships.
- Some couples choose a Boston marriage over traditional marriage for personal or financial reasons.
- Alice and Margaret had a Boston marriage and raised three children together.
- The concept of Boston marriage challenges traditional ideas about relationships and family structures.