Women's lib came to Walnut Grove really early and it was just way too out of character for the show.
Subtle ways about women having more rights have been seen in this show. Caroline's working at the restaurant, Laura's teaching, etc. But this one just leaves a really bad taste in my mouth.
Caroline is usually very understandable about the way things are for women, but in this episode she seemed to be really out of character as she stand up for what she believes. Caroline is NOT like this. She would never talk women into leaving their husbands or get into a stupid argument with Charles just because he doesn't want to sign some petition. I thought she was a bit spiteful, and was very happy when she finally got her way.
Almanzo really surprised me! Remember the first episode of this season? He was dead set on his wife working outside the home, but I guess he finally accepted the fact though they had an agreement that once she had a baby that would go away. Almanzo expected Laura to do the housework, cooking, and other wifely duties (other duties were hinted in this episode, by the way). But when he tells Laura he doesn't mind signing the petition - I was shocked! I don't think Almanzo's character EVER agreed with equal rights for women! Almanzo just seemed way too indifferent. Instead of Charles and Caroline having the fight, Laura and Almanzo would have beeb a bit more believable.
I am very disappointed in the men letting the women strong-arm them like this. I think it should have ended differently.