I am quite impressed by the accomplishments of these fine women. Although it has been uncommon for women to enroll in University, it makes me proud to see what has come out of the education of these women. Miss Mary Louisa Worley has achieved so much by the age of only twenty-four years old. From being third on the list at the University of London to earning the Gold Medal, Miss Worley is more than qualified for the professional world and I cannot wait to see what she accomplishes in the years to come. Mrs. Mary Scharlieb has set the grand example for all women as well, being the first qualified female doctor in Britain. Despite already receiving many qualifications in Madras and Vienna, she went above and beyond at the University of London to achieve her M.D. Her current position as Senior Physician at the New Hospital and lecturer to educate more women in the medical field is nothing short of extraordinary. For years, I have argued that women are just as qualified as men and should be accepted in the professional world. However, we have continuously been forced within the confines of the home, trapped economically and legally under our husbands. I can only hope that more women follow the example of these two remarkable women and matriculate in post-secondary education in order to free themselves of dependence. To be in control of your own life and experience all that life has to offer is something that I wish upon every woman.
Editor Commentary: This newspaper article from The Graphic about two female medical graduates shows how women have expanded their reach beyond the traditional roles assigned to them by the male-dominated society. Women during this time usually remained in the household to take care of the home and the children. However, some women choose to educate themselves in order to work and earn money, independent from a husband or another man. The newspaper article explains how two women excelled in their studies at the University of London and were able to succeed in the professional world. Mrs. Mary Scharlieb, in particular, earned many qualifications in Medicine and Obstetrics in other countries; however, when she came to Britain, she was unable to obtain an M.D. until 1889 due to the rareness of women in Universities. She became the first qualified female doctor in Britain and opened her own hospital, motivating other women during this era to lean towards post-secondary education and build a career for themselves. Because of this woman's support toward more independence and engagement in a society controlled by men, I would consider her a New Woman. By getting an education, New Women are becoming more qualified for jobs, and therefore, they do not have to depend on the men in their lives to provide for them. This newfound independence for women also allowed them to have more freedom when it comes to choosing their partner because there was no longer a rush to marry since they were economically well-off on their own.
Citation: The Graphic. “Honours for Ladies at the University of London.” The Graphic, 1 June 1889, https://www.bl.uk/collection-items/newspaper-article-about-female-medic…. Accessed 9 November 2020.