Though, when actually examined, the females portrayed in both literary works do show signs of bravery and rebellious spirit, which represents the actual mind of authors, they are still oppressed by the patriarchal society to a large extent. In Frankenstein, superficially, most female characters are portrayed as “heaven-sent” angels (Shelley, 34). The soul of them is like “a shrine-dedicated lamp” and they are “the living spirits of love to soften and attract” (38), which are fully consistent with the image of women in people’s minds in mainstream society in the 19th century (Sunstein, 4). Nonetheless, the weaknesses of them, which are used by the author to criticize the unfairness of the society, cannot be neglected. The two main female characters in Frankenstein: Caroline and Elizabeth are carefully analyzed in this essay, and from Frankenstein’s narration of them, we can see the author’s deep thinking and criticism about the unfairness of society.
Because of the way that she engaged with and challenged the changing reality of her period, her contribution to the literary world is valued most highly. The social expectations of women are addressed in both “Morning Song” and “The Applicant”. In the 60’s, there was a strong societal view that motherhood was the greatest thing that could happen to a woman, and that having children was God’s gift, one of the only jobs women have – in some cases, this notion remains today. “Morning Song”, however, presents a controversial perspective on bearing children – the persona in the poem is bitter about having a child, instead of overjoyed. There is a lack of feeling throughout the poem, and particularly in the first half, a huge
This group was believed to be modeled after the French Jacobins and just as radical. Mary was radical in the sense that she desired to bridge the gap between mankind’s present circumstances and ultimate perfection. After her death, she served as an example to women of the 19th century, either as an “unsex’d female” or as a model author in the male-dominated world of letters (Miller par 1). After her death she was also dubbed the founder of the British Women’s Rights Movement (Purinton par 5). The
The Life and Times of E.B.B. Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-1861) During the early nineteenth century, feminists were first coming out into the political forefront. Among them, Elizabeth Barrett Browning emerged as one the greatest woman writers of all time. She wrote of "social reform, for the rights of lower classes and women, and for the cause of Italian freedom (Lewis)." While many aspects and circumstances of life affected her work, she was also able to effect society in many ways.
Women's rights movement had occurred to protest and demand equal rights in the workplace, education , politics and all other aspects of life. The movement brought about major changes in their lives. The introduction of the birth control pill gave women more freedom in their sex life's and hence loosen the pressure from the society as they could carefully family plan. Aboriginal Australians had known injustice from the first days of white settlements .
The growth of England into an industrial country also brings along changes in female sexual expression and feminism, as women are allowed more freedom to express themselves inwardly. Stoker, a true Victorian, writes within his story about the change of women to sexual beings. Women of the time were expected to be pure, virgin, women devoted to their men. This ideal is portrayed through Mina and Lucy, as two stereotypical women of Victorian times. Despite Lucy’s flirtatious manner and breezy ways, both Mina and Lucy are pure and sweet women, truly in love with their men.
Women were also depicted as kind and caring as well as being the perfect mother and housewife, on the other hand men were portrayed as brave, strong and loyal. However, these portrayals of both genders are far from the main characters of Browning’s poems Laboratory and Porphyria’s lover, as well as Shakespeare’s tragedy Macbeth. The domineering and ruthless speakers such as the narrator of the Laboratory together with Porphyria’s Lover along with Macbeth and Lady Macbeth play the most important roles in representing Shakespeare and Browning’s strong-willed speakers. The tragedy Macbeth is a play centered on the theme of the corrupting power of unchecked ambition. The play is set in a violent, male dominated era where men were expected to be strong, brave and able to take control while women were kind, nurturing and feminine.
Also, John Proctor is surprisingly sensitive and thoughtful. When he asks his wife if she is saddened he displays concern for her well-being. He wants nothing more than for his dear wife to feel loved and he is willing to do whatever it takes to make her feel that way. He always spoke good about his wife. For example, when Elizabeth was accused of witchcraft, John said, “My wife cannot lie, I have paid much to learn it sir.” (p.111) John Proctor's major flaw was his great pride in his name.
“Laugh as much as you choose, but you will not laugh me out of my opinion.” Jane ch 17 -Charles Bingley- Easily influenced and a nice man. Darcy’s friend who move to Netherfield, and left Netherfield. “If a women is partial to a man, and does not endevour to conceal it, he must find it out.” Elizabeth ch 6 - Mrs. Bennet- obstructive and foolish. Elizabeth’s mother who is obsessed with husbands for her daughters. Attempting to push Elizabeth into a marriage with Mr. Collins.
Throughout history men have often played a dominant role in society. This is especially true during the 19th century when 'The Yellow Wallpaper' was written. During this time period women were expected to fulfil their role as both mother and wife, nothing less and certainly never anything more, and be content in their societal role. Author Charlotte Gilman, draws on her own personal experience with patriarchal dominance to portray the suffering of women throughout history. Gilman's use of windows, doors and thresholds throughout 'The Yellow Wallpaper' symbolize the patriarchy dominance that is felt by the female protagonist, and also her will to overcome these barriers.