“The Chrysanthemums”: An Early Depiction of Gender’s Role :: Literary Analysis, John Steinbeck

The traditional role of women in the American society has transformed as society has trended towards sexual equality. In the late(prenominal) women were expected to be submissive to the patch and were looked upon as homemakers rather then providers. Modern day women enjoy the freedom of individuality and are considered as adequate as men in many regards. John Steinbecks short story, The Chrysanthemums, portrays a womans struggle with accepting her life and role as a female (459). Through the protagonist-female character, Elisa Allen, and the symbolism of chrysanthemums, Steinbeck displays the gender roles that define past generations of womens lives in the United States. Elisa Allen embodies the image of a naive woman eager to escape the confines of a gender defined role in society. Readers are introduced to Elisa as a 35 course of study old, strong woman living with her husband, total heat, on a ranch in Salinas Valley (Steinbeck 460). Elisas masculinity is highlighted from th e attire she is wearing to the strength in her hands. Henry affirms that Elisa is capable in her endeavors when he states, youve got a gift with things, in regards to her garden (Steinbeck 460). Even though Elisa is delighted at Henrys suggestion that she work in the orchard, the idea does not seem to get a second thought (Steinbeck 460). The idea of a woman running(a) in the orchard is dismissed on the premise that the orchard is not a womans place. In Elisas account with the man in the wagon, her sexuality exudes in her graphic explanation of picking off the flower buds and being under the stars, to the point that she almost physically touches the man (Steinbeck 463). Her rely would go unsatisfied, as it would not be appropriate for her to act on her impulse. Elisa is searching for fulfillment in life but finds her role to be trivial. Intrigued by the idea of traveling, as the gentleman in the wagon does, she states, It must be very nice. I wish women could do such things. She i s shot beat as the man replies, It aint the right kind of a life for a woman (Steinbeck 464). This conversation clearly depicts the prevalent inequality of the sexes. Furthermore, at a time the man leaves in the caravan Elisa cements her urge for something more, looking out at the horizon whispering, Thats a bright direction. Theres a glowing there (Steinbeck 464-465).