In many societies, the 20th century is characterized by constant changes in values, practices, and roles. However, the literature has shown the existence of continuities in all of them. The purpose of this article is to analyze changes and continuities in the role of woman, especially in the family context, based on research data collected in the Southeast of Brazil. Data were obtained from interviews carried out with men and women who were born from the end of 19th century until 70's. The results emphasize the new role of woman nowadays. The image of being a fragile, sentimental and caring about her children is replaced by one of a woman in development who seeks to fulfill her potentialities. However, the pathways tracked by the evolution of the role of woman mark both continuities and discontinuities.
woman; role; changes and continuities; 20th century