“The revolt against war”; Jane Addams’ rhetorical challenge to the patriarchy

This article investigates Jane Addams’ July 9, 1915, address to Carnegie Hall as well as the contextual infrastructure of the presentation. Using elements of myth, the authors identify prominent themes in Addams’ address and in the criticism/context surrounding the speech. The threat Addams presented to prevalent myths, including contemporary understandings of the role of the soldier, nationalism, and patriarchal structure, provides a new perspective on the relationship between myth, culture and ideology.

Key concepts:

• Jane Addams
• myth
• culture and ideology
• progressive era rhetoric
• Women's Peace Party