One theme for fine arts classes is an inquiry into the place of women in the arts. Why are they so under-represented? Of course, the search can be extended to technology and professional services, too.
Where are the women in history? Why do we see such an imbalance until recent times?
There's no easy answer. Your teacher's thesis is that women have created equal amounts of art but were denied recognition by the male-dominated European way.
Where are the women that might equal Bach, Mozart and Beethoven in composing? One answer lies in the tragic story of Mozart's sister, Maria Anna.
While she was feted as a prodigy when she and Wolfgang were young, Mozart's father later suppressed her talent.
He wanted the son to have clear access to the glory.
If Maria Anna had developed the strength to defy her father, would she have produced worthy compositions? I would feel confident in answering, "Yes."
I invite my students to follow this line of inquiry and develop your own theses.
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