C. What did you learn about the role of women in the societies described in the reading selections in this unit? Describe how the women cope with the conflicts they encounter.
Based on the reading selections in this unit, it is apparent that the role of women varied significantly in the societies described. In "The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin, women were expected to be submissive and obedient to their husbands. Louise, the protagonist, coped with this conflict by hiding her true feelings and conforming to societal expectations. However, upon learning about her husband's death, she experiences conflicting emotions of liberation and eventually succumbs to the overwhelming joy. This suggests that women were confined by societal norms but could find solace in their thoughts and dreams.
On the other hand, in "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the role of women is portrayed as being undermined by patriarchal control. The unnamed narrator is confined to a room by her husband John, who believes that rest and isolation will cure her depression. However, the narrator copes with this conflict by secretly writing in a journal and obsessing over the wallpaper in her room. This signifies her desire for freedom, suggesting that women were restricted, both physically and mentally, and had to find alternate ways to express themselves.
In "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" by James Thurber, although the primary focus is on Walter Mitty, the portrayal of women is limited. Walter's wife, Mrs. Mitty, is depicted as assertive and domineering. She constantly belittles Walter and controls his every action. However, it can be argued that Mrs. Mitty serves as a coping mechanism for Walter. In his daydreams, he takes on heroic roles, perhaps to escape the emasculating reality of his marriage. This suggests that women in this society were seen as powerful figures, but their power was used in a way that suppressed men.
In summary, the role of women in the societies described in the reading selections varied from submissive and confined to assertive and controlling. Women coped with the conflicts they encountered by conforming to societal expectations, finding solace in their thoughts and dreams, secretly expressing themselves, or exerting control over men. Ultimately, these coping mechanisms allowed them to navigate the limitations imposed upon them by their respective societies.