The monstrous regiment of women

Definitions

• criticize or complain about a large group of women in power
  Express disapproval of the number or influence of women in positions of authority, often with the implication that they are doing a poor job or causing problems

Examples of The monstrous regiment of women

• In the meeting, the CEO proposed to hand over the company's reins to a group of skilled and experienced women, which would mark the first time in the organization's history that the "monstrous regiment of women" would be in charge.

  This idiom, originally coined by the English philosopher and politician John Knox, refers to a situation where women are in a position of power that has traditionally been held by men. It is often used to describe a scenario where women hold a majority in a leadership or decision-making capacity. The term "monstrous" is used here to emphasize the supposedly unusual and unexpected nature of this development, as historically, women have been excluded from such positions due to societal norms around gender roles.

• Although he disapproved of it, my grandfather couldn't deny the success of the all-female STEM organization his daughter founded. It was a stark contrast to the "monstrous regiment of women" he had grown up with, where women were largely relegated to traditional gender roles.

  Here, the idiom is used to illustrate how societal attitudes around women's roles have evolved over time. The term "monstrous regiment" is applied to the traditional patriarchal structures that have traditionally kept women from positions of power and influence, especially in male-dominated fields like STEM.

• Some men still seem to view women in leadership positions as a "monstrous regiment" that challenges traditional gender roles and threatens their own power bases.

  This use of the idiom exposes the misogyny that still exists in some quarters, where men view the rise of women in leadership positions as a challenge to their own authority. It highlights the persistence of the patriarchal structures that the idiom aims to challenge.

• In this year's presidential election, the party nominated a woman as their candidate, marking the first time in history that a woman-led "monstrous regiment" would potentially become the most powerful political figure in the country.

  This use of the idiom highlights the novelty and significance of a woman-led administration, which would break the glass ceiling of gender inequality in politics that has traditionally favored men. The term "monstrous regiment" is applied to the group of women who have risen to political prominence in this instance, challenging the traditional perception of women as powerless and subordinate figures.

• In her quest for power, she surrounded herself with a group of fiercely independent and influential women, creating a monstrous regiment of women.

  The idiom "monstrous regiment of women" dates back to the 16th century and originally referred to the idea that a woman ruling a country would cause chaos and disorder. However, the phrase has since taken on a more general connotation, implying a group of women who dominate or control a particular situation or group. In this example, the phrase is being used to describe a group of strong and powerful women who wield influence over their leader, who is herself driven by her desire for power.

• In spite of the monstrous regiment of women he found himself in, John remained steadfast and determined to climb the corporate ladder.

  In this example, the phrase "monstrous regiment of women" is being used in a humorous and ironic way. Traditionally, the phrase suggests that women are a disruptive force, but in this case, it is being used to describe a situation where the speaker feels outnumbered or at a disadvantage because of the gender makeup of the group he is trying to succeed in. The speaker's determination and grit in the face of this obstacle shows that he is unfazed by the situation and is willing to put in the work to achieve his goals.

• After Jane's husband passed away, she found herself at the head of a monstrous regiment of women, as her daughters and sisters banded together to support her through her grief.

  In this example, the phrase "monstrous regiment of women" is being used to describe a supportive and loving group of women who are rallying around Jane after the loss of her husband. By using this phrase, the speaker is acknowledging the difficult position Jane is in, but also highlighting the strength and unity that emerges from this group of women as they band together to help each other through a challenging time.

• The all-female boardroom was once viewed as a monstrous regiment of women, but in today's world, it is simply a reflection of the changing times.

  In this example, the phrase "monstrous regiment of women" is being used to acknowledge the evolution of societal norms around gender roles in the workplace. By using this phrase, the speaker is highlighting how far we have come, and how the idea that a group of women in positions of power is somehow disruptive or unsettling is becoming increasingly outdated. Instead, it is being viewed as a sign of progress and social change.

Conclusion

"The monstrous regiment of women" is a controversial phrase that is often used to criticize or complain about the number or influence of women in positions of power. It is frequently employed in a negative context to express disapproval of women in authority, suggesting that their presence is problematic or detrimental.

The phrase is not commonly used in modern English due to its sexist and outdated connotations, but it is important to be aware of its historical use and the impact it has had on gender relations and perceptions of women in power.

Origin of "The monstrous regiment of women"

The idiom "the monstrous regiment of women" originated in a pamphlet by Scottish Protestant reformer John Knox in 1558, where he used it to express his disapproval of female rulers, specifically Queen Mary I of England and Mary, Queen of Scots. Knox's use of the phrase has contributed to its association with sexism and resistance to women in positions of authority.

Over time, the phrase has become synonymous with the idea of criticizing or complaining about women in power, and its historical origin has shaped its negative connotations in modern usage. Despite its controversial history, the phrase serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of challenging outdated and discriminatory attitudes towards women.