Politically radical, the essays ridicule war, prudishness, patriotism, bigotry and Christian theology. This view could be ascribed to late-Victorian prudishness applied anachronistically to ancient times. Hence, new feelings appeared&colon; embarrassment and prudishness. Charmian's aunt and foster mother, a disciple of Victoria Woodhull, had raised her without prudishness. Reith earned a reputation for prudishness in sexual matters. John sometimes referred to Robert as "Black Robert" due to his prudishness and disposition.