Historically, the role of mothers has been subject to significant scrutiny and romanticization. Women were often expected to embody the virtues of domesticity, prioritizing the needs of their families above their own. This selflessness was seen as a hallmark of good motherhood, with women being expected to sacrifice their personal aspirations and desires for the sake of their children. However, this ideal has been criticized for being overly restrictive and ignoring the diverse experiences of mothers across different cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, and family structures.