- 1
Examine the theme of gender in this section of the reading. How does Atwood enliven this theme through the male suitors and Telemachus?
Atwood makes the gender roles throughout this period of time clear. Women are less valued than men, starting at birth. Sons are prized over daughters. Daughters are valuable only for the husbands and sons they’ll bring to the family. Women, even aristocratic women, are stuck dealing with having little autonomy throughout their lives. They are essentially the property of their fathers and then their husbands. Rape is not considered a crime; it’s normal for men to rape women. In particular, in this section, the sexist gender roles are...
Join Now to View Premium Content
GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.
