Song of Solomon Lesson Plan

Discuss the theme of gender in this section. How do males and female characters interact, and what messages do these interactions convey about gender roles and dynamics?

Interactions between men and women in this section, and throughout the novel, are contentious and fraught. The men hold more social power, and they frequently use this power to mistreat or abuse the women in their lives. Macon is an obvious example in his relationship with Ruth, but Milkman also does this to some extent. There is a fascinating parallel between Milkman's first sexual encounter with Hagar and his nursing ritual with Ruth. Both times, he enters a bedroom to see a woman smiling at him and...