Walking a Fine Line

Abstract

In this essay, I examine the social disparity between the genders at Duke University, focusing on two critical time periods – the first decades of the founding of The Woman’s College and Trinity College from the mid 1920’s to late 1930’s and the politically transitional period of the early 1960’s to early 1970’s. I believe these phases juxtapose a rigidly defined society and critical period of challenging the norm for women. I also believe that these two periods best represent the university’s response to changing social standards. In respect to the social atmosphere at the University, I specifically focus on the dating culture and dating policies. I will not analyze an intermediate period, as I feel that there is insignificant change between these eras. Additionally, I will not focus on a later period because I think that after the dissolution of The Woman’s College and the integration of women into Duke University, differing policies concerning gender are not as explicitly stated.