Today, on International Women's Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements and enduring legacies of women worldwide. We observe this day to raise awareness about discrimination. It is a reminder to advocate for equality in all facets of life. Every year I try to introduce you to some of the extraordinary Polish women who can serve as inspiration to all of us. Today I would like to present three women who have probably never existed - they are fictional characters, yet they have many qualities they are admired for. Their stories, though fictional, offer valuable lessons and profound inspiration for women everywhere.
Marta from "Dom dzienny, dom nocny"
Marta, an enigmatic neighbour in Olga Tokarczuk's novel “House of Day, House of Night”, helps the narrator uncover the rich tapestry of stories and histories in the small town of Nowa Ruda. Through her anecdotes, recipes, and gossip, Marta brings the town's past and present to life. Her character is a testament to the power of storytelling, showing how narratives can connect us to our roots and each other. Marta's resilience and determination to preserve the town's history can inspire young women to value their heritage and find strength in their connections to their communities. Her inquisitive nature shows the importance of curiosity and continuous learning.
Sierotka Marysia from "O krasnoludkach i sierotce Marysi" (About the Dwarfs and the Little Orphan Marysia)
Sierotka Marysia, created by Maria Konopnicka, is an orphan (sierota, sierotka) who overcomes her hardships with kindness, compassion, and courage. Her adventures demonstrate her resourcefulness and creativity in solving problems. Marysia's character embodies the virtues of resilience, empathy, and hope. In a desperate situation, when she needed to help her geese, without hesitation she went on a quest to meet the powerful queen Tatra - quite strikingly, before visiting her, she asked her friends whether the queen was a kind person - she always wanted to see the good in the others. Her unwavering optimism, even in the face of adversity, can inspire young women to remain hopeful and compassionate, no matter the challenges they encounter.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Izabela Łęcka from "Lalka" (The Doll)
Izabela Łęcka, a character in Bolesław Prus's novel, is a complex and ambitious woman navigating the societal expectations of her time. Despite her difficult financial situation, Izabela remains independent and resourceful, striving for a better life. Her pursuit of personal ambitions and resilience in adversity make her an inspiring figure. Izabela's character encourages young women to embrace their individuality, pursue their dreams, and remain steadfast in the face of obstacles. While at school, unfortunately, the teachers depict her as an ice queen, as she repeatedly turned down Stanisław Wokulski, who tried numerous times to capture her affection - he even saved her family from bankruptcy, we can clearly see that Izabela wanted to save her heart for the person she truly loved and her feelings could not be bought. While she perhaps failed to fulfill the societal expectations of her own time, I believe that she is a wonderful example of an independent woman who follows her heart.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
These three literary heroines, with their unique stories and strengths, serve as powerful role models for women. Their narratives remind us of the importance of resilience, empathy, and determination in overcoming life's challenges. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us draw inspiration from Marta, Marysia, and Izabela, and strive to embody the same courage and strength in our own lives.
Happy International Women's Day!