Evaluate the role of women in two societies, each from a different region.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the role of women in two societies. The two societies must be from different regions but they may or may not have been contemporaneous with each other. Candidates may offer equal coverage of the two societies, or they may emphasize their discussion of one of them; however, both societies will be a feature of the response. A comparative approach may or may not be used. Candidates may refer to the economic role of women, for example their role as craftspeople or traders. Women in leadership roles may be discussed, for example Eleanor of Aquitaine or the Regent Dowager Liu Zhangxian in their respective regions. Alternatively, candidates may discuss women’s occupational roles or their role in intellectual and/or religious life. Both strengths and limitations must be clearly indicated but there does not need to be an equal focus on each.

The question required candidates to make an appraisal of the role of women in two societies, each chosen from a different region. Of the responses seen, most did not include appropriate examples, referring, instead, to the role of women in twentieth century states.