ABSTRACT
This chapter explores heroines challenge a specific negative stereotype associated with women: that they cannot place obligation above sentiment. Furthermore, they think critically and exhibit leadership skills and intellectual prowess that grant them the central role but also demonstrate that women can be competent political leaders. Dutiful heroines in early modern works by female playwrights share some similarities with traditional Cornelian heroines. Like Chimene, they are virtuous heroines in that they uphold what society sees as their traditionalist obligations, which are always subservient to male, patriarchal powers. Ironically, the dutiful heroine's ability to rise above her emotions makes it difficult for the audience to identify with her. To exercise rationality, she rejects her passions. Disempowered dutiful heroines serve as a medium through which women playwrights spoke to the problem of gender inequality. In addition, dutiful heroines share another important characteristic: they prioritize duty over sentiment.
