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Many of de Pisan's works urged that women be allowed to participate more fully in society. She also denounced the way women were portrayed in Medieval literature. In her long poem, Letter to the God of Love, she complained that women were often described as dishonest and unreliable.
"Between Mother Nature and myselfshe vows. She reminds her readers about the single-minded loyalty of classical heroines like Penelope and of the Virgin Mary. Some modem scholars consider de Pisan to be history's first feminist.
As long as the world lasts, we won't let
Them be so uncherished and unloved,"
This poem to her son is a good example of her plain-spoken style.
I have no great fortune, my son,
To make you rich. In place of one
Here are some lessons I have learned--
the finest things I've ever earned.
Before the world has borne you far,
Try to know people as they are.
Knowing that will help you take
The path that keeps you from mistake.
Pity anyone who is poor
And stands in rags outside your door
Help them when you hear them cry!
Remember that you, too will die.
Love those who have love for you
And keep your enemy in view:
Of allies none can have too many,
Small enemies there are not any.
Never lose what the good Lord gave
To this, our world too much enslaved:
The foolish rush to end their lives.
Only the steadfast soul survives.