Paul is frequently cited as the baseline for misogynists, Largely because of a letter he wrote, recommending that women should be silent in Church and cover their heads. (Incidently, I personally feel, given the geographical and cultural diversity of people at that time, that this and many other, seemingly strange injunctions, were more likely to have been based upon emphasising local traditions and conditions, rather than seeking to apply to all).
I recall an article written in the late 19th century, by a writer with a rather traditional view of the world. He suggested that, outwardly, we see a family as being headed by a strong man who makes the decisions, with an obedient, demuir woman behnd him, caring for his children. The reality is that the man is the physically strong one, which a woman will pick, cultivate and manage so that he is presenting the family, while the woman is making the decisions. (Actually, the article wasn't quite like that, but that is what I remember. I was only 12 when I read it).
This ties in with the Islamic notions of women. That men are here to care for women and protect them. But the strength is in women. A strong wind will simply make you pull your coat tighter, but the gentle warmth of the sun will make you take it off.
Our position is difficult because we have started in the wrong lane, so to speak. I hope we can all celebrate that our problems are being increasingly recognised in the current generation of children, so they will have a head start.
