Charwoman

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A charwoman who cleans buses sweeping the floor of a bus 8d32921v

Carol Burnett charwoman character 1974

Charwoman is a term historically used to describe a woman who is employed to clean houses, offices, and other buildings. The role of a charwoman is similar to that of a housekeeper, cleaner, or maid, but traditionally, charwomen were often employed on a more casual basis, working in different locations on different days of the week. The term is considered somewhat outdated in modern usage and has largely been replaced by more neutral terms such as cleaner or cleaning staff.

History

The concept of a charwoman dates back several centuries, with the role being more prevalent during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Europe and North America. Charwomen were often employed by middle and upper-class families to perform general cleaning tasks that the family members themselves would not undertake. This could include sweeping and mopping floors, dusting, washing dishes, and laundry. In many cases, charwomen were not live-in staff but would travel from house to house to offer their services.

Social and Economic Implications

The employment of charwomen was deeply intertwined with the social and economic conditions of the time. Many charwomen came from lower socio-economic backgrounds and relied on such work as their primary source of income. The work was often hard and poorly paid, reflecting the broader issues of gender, class, and employment inequalities.

Cultural Representation

The figure of the charwoman has been depicted in various forms of literature, theatre, and cinema, often embodying themes of resilience, hard work, and the struggles of the working class. Notable examples include characters in the works of Charles Dickens and the portrayal of charwomen in early 20th-century films and plays.

Modern Usage and Perception

Today, the term charwoman is rarely used, considered by many to be archaic and carrying connotations of the class and gender biases of earlier periods. The modern cleaning industry is vast and varied, employing millions of people worldwide in roles that range from domestic cleaning to commercial and industrial cleaning services. The industry has also seen significant changes in terms of employment practices, workers' rights, and the professionalization of cleaning services.

See Also

• Housekeeper
• Maid
• Cleaner
• Domestic worker

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