Across the Gender Divide

Abstract

This chapter explores the gendered dimension of sibling relationships, approaching the subject from both directions. Elder brothers often negotiated marriages for their sisters, and blocked matches they judged unsuitable. Many accepted a moral obligation to support sisters widowed or deserted, and to provide for those who remained single. Women in landed and professional families were very conscious of their dependency. Some were bitterly resentful, and expressions of love and devotion were prompted in part by the need to retain a brother’s support. But the chapter also explores genuinely close and affectionate ties, and the theme of female agency. It demonstrates too how women at all social levels were able to provide both practical and emotional support for their brothers. Even among the poor, young women could intervene to help a destitute or feckless younger brother. In brother–sister relationships, support flowed in both directions.