Great Women Empowered: A Must-Read Recommendation of ‘Educated’

In Tara Westover’s critically acclaimed memoir Educated, she courageously unearths her journey from a remote rural Idaho town to the hallowed halls of the world’s most prestigious universities. This gripping tale not only illuminates the power of education but also sheds light on the extraordinary strength and resilience possessed by women throughout history. From unsung heroines who defied societal norms to trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings, great women have continuously shaped our world, their stories often buried beneath the weight of patriarchy. As we turn the pages of Educated, we embark on a profound exploration of the untold stories of great women, eager to rediscover their forgotten legacies and celebrate their indomitable spirit.

“Great women” typically refers to women who have had a significant impact on society through their achievements, contributions, leadership, or influence. These women often excel in fields such as politics, science, art, literature, sports, or activism and are recognized for breaking barriers and challenging gender stereotypes. Examples of great women include historical figures such as Marie Curie, Rosa Parks, and Jane Austen, as well as contemporary women like Malala Yousafzai, Oprah Winfrey, and Serena Williams.

Great women are important to us for several reasons:

1. Inspiration and Role Models: Great women serve as excellent sources of inspiration and role models for people of all genders. They break barriers, challenge societal norms, and achieve extraordinary things, inspiring others to aim higher and pursue their dreams.

2. Progress and Equality: Great women have played a crucial role in advancing the cause of gender equality and breaking down gender stereotypes. They have fought for and achieved important rights and opportunities for women, contributing to a more equitable society.

3. Representation and Diversity: Great women bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table. Their inclusion in various fields ensures that decisions are made and actions are taken with a broader understanding of different viewpoints, resulting in better outcomes for all.

4. Contribution to Social, Economic, and Cultural Development: Great women have made significant contributions to various fields, including science, arts, politics, sports, and business. Their achievements have led to advancements in technology, scientific breakthroughs, innovative creations, and social progress, benefiting society as a whole.

5. Empowerment and Confidence: Great women empower future generations by showing them that they too can accomplish great things. Their success instills confidence in young girls and women, encouraging them to pursue their passions, overcome challenges, and strive for excellence.

6. Breakdown of Stereotypes: Great women challenge stereotypes and help redefine notions of femininity and success. They demonstrate that women can be strong, capable, and accomplished in any area they choose, breaking down the limitations imposed by traditional gender roles.

7. Enhancing the Quality of Relationships: Great women contribute to building healthy and equal relationships. Their achievements and confidence inspire others to view women as equals, fostering respect and understanding among individuals.

Overall, great women are important to us because they not only contribute to social progress and equality but also serve as shining examples of what can be achieved when women are given equal opportunities and support. Their impact can be felt far beyond their own accomplishments, influencing and shaping the lives of countless individuals.

Educated” is a memoir written by Tara Westover that chronicles her journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho to eventually pursuing higher education at prestigious universities. Born into a family that adhered to the beliefs of her father, a radical religious fundamentalist, Tara and her six siblings were denied formal education, leaving them isolated and lacking basic knowledge of the world beyond their mountain home. Tara’s father mistrusted modern institutions such as schools and hospitals and encouraged his children to rely solely on their family for their education and healthcare needs.

Despite these limitations, Tara was determined to seek knowledge, and through her own persistence, she taught herself to read and studied on her own. As she grew older, Tara felt an increasing desire to break free from her sheltered life and experience the world beyond her family’s expectations. A pivotal moment came when two of her older siblings escaped the household and went on to pursue higher education. Inspired by their courage, Tara decided to make a similar leap and applied to college.

Educated depicts Tara’s journey as she overcomes numerous obstacles and battles the internal conflict between loyalty to her family and the pursuit of her own ambitions. She faces resistance from her father, who considers her education to be a betrayal of their family’s values, and experiences systemic challenges as she tries to fit into the unfamiliar societal norms of academia. Through perseverance, Tara manages to flourish academically and gains admission to Brigham Young University, followed by a scholarship to study at Cambridge University.

As Tara immerses herself in the world of academia, she begins to question the teachings of her childhood and the toxic dynamics within her family. This internal struggle intensifies as she learns about her father’s mental illness and the traumatic experiences she endured growing up. Through her education, Tara gains not only knowledge but also independence, empathy, and an understanding of the power of choosing her own path.

Ultimately, “Educated” is a story of self-discovery and resilience, as Tara Westover demonstrates the transformative effects of education and the ability to rise above one’s circumstances. Her memoir is a testament to the power of knowledge and the impact it can have on one’s life, even in the face of adversity.

In the book “Educated” by Tara Westover, the concept of Great Women is not explicitly defined or discussed. However, throughout the book, there are various strong and resilient women who play significant roles in Tara’s life and influence her growth and education. Here are some notable women and the methods they employ:

1. Tara’s Mother (LaRee Westover): LaRee believes in the power of natural remedies and herbal medicine. She uses alternative methods to treat ailments and is known for her skills as an herbalist.

2. Tara’s Grandmother (Hilda): Hilda has a strong influence on Tara and encourages her to attend school. She believes education is essential for personal growth and challenges Tara’s father’s restrictive views.

3. Tara’s Aunt Angie: Angie is the first of Tara’s family to graduate from college. She introduces Tara to the idea of pursuing education beyond what is available within their community. Angie becomes a mentor for Tara and a source of inspiration.

4. Tara’s Aunt Audrey: Audrey works as a nurse and supports Tara during her struggles. She emphasizes the importance of attending school and achieving independence.

5. Tara’s Sister (Audrey) and Sister-in-law (Val): Both Audrey and Val have pursued higher education and serve as role models for Tara. They encourage her to believe in her own potential and support her in breaking free from her family’s oppressive mindset.

These are just a few examples of the women who shape Tara’s journey in the book “Educated.” Each woman brings her own unique approach and method in guiding Tara toward a different life outside the restrictive boundaries of her upbringing.

Educated quotes as follows:

1. “Everything I had worked for, all my years of study, had been to purchase for myself this one privilege: to see and experience more truths than those given to me by my father, and to use those truths to construct my own mind.”

2. “All my life, I’d been told what to believe about politics, colored people, women. Because my father said these things, I never doubted them. But when I saw Papa at the trial, I began to doubt everything.”

3. “I was a child of this place, rooted here like the wildflowers, and I loved everything about it, even the snowstorms.”

4. “You can love someone and still choose to say goodbye to them,”

5. “It’s strange how you give the people you love so much power over you.”

6. “I get to choose who I am. I get to choose what I do. I can speak for myself.”

7. “I am teaching myself to do something even more unnatural. I am teaching myself to be okay with it.”

8. “To admit uncertainty is to admit to weakness, to powerlessness, and to believe in yourself despite both. It is a frailty, but in this frailty, there is a strength: the conviction to live in your own mind, and not in someone else’s.”

9. “Imagine someone holding forth on biology whose only knowledge of the subject is the Book of British Birds, and you have a rough idea of what it feels like to read [his] take on gender theory.”

10. “I had crossed some kind of line, and from that point there was no return. And there’s still not one.”

1. “Educated” by Tara Westover (Memoir):

Starting off with the book that inspired your request, “Educated” is a powerful memoir that traces Tara Westover’s journey from growing up in a strict and isolated household in rural Idaho to eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University. It touches on themes of education, self-discovery, and the struggle to reconcile one’s past with the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

2. Victoria The Queen” by Julia Baird (Biography):

If you enjoyed the exploration of personal growth and ambition in “Educated,” you might find “Victoria The Queen” by Julia Baird equally compelling. This biography offers a detailed account of Queen Victoria’s life, from her ascension to the throne at the age of 18 to her incredible reign as one of the most influential leaders in British history. It highlights Victoria’s determination, perseverance, and the challenges she faced while adapting to her role as a queen.

3. Agatha Christie” by Agatha Christie (Autobiography):

For readers fascinated by the process of personal transformation and the pursuit of one’s passion, “Agatha Christie” is an excellent choice. In her autobiography, the iconic mystery writer delves into her life, career, and the inspirations behind her world-renowned detective novels. Christie’s journey from a shy and reserved young woman to a best-selling author showcases her dedication to her craft and the impact she had on the literary world.

4. The Story of My Life” by Helen Keller (Autobiography):

Helen Keller’s poignant memoir, “The Story of My Life,” offers readers a firsthand account of her incredible triumph over the dual challenges of deafness and blindness. Similar to Tara Westover’s transformation in “Educated,” Helen Keller’s story underscores the power of education and the indomitable human spirit. It is an inspiring and uplifting narrative that delves into Keller’s life, from her early years to her lifelong advocacy for the rights of those with disabilities.

5. I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai (Memoir):

In “I Am Malala,” Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai tells her remarkable story of bravery and determination in the face of adversity. Growing up in a region of Pakistan controlled by the Taliban, Malala fought for her right to receive an education, even in the face of threats and violence. Her memoir serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the unwavering pursuit of justice, making it an ideal companion read for those who enjoyed Tara Westover’s journey in “Educated.”