Hm yeah, I understand people that days didn't think the way we do now... but that doesn't mean I have to like it :p
And there sure are books from that time with strong women, such as Zola's Gervaise in l'Assommoir.. too bad things don't often turn out allright with them..

I liked Eponine, but I doubt she was meant to be likeable.

lol that would be just cruel