The story The Chrysanthemums by John Steinbeck captures the true essence of a woman stuck in a male dominated world. The protagonist, Elisa Allen, works hard in her garden and maintains the house while her husband brings in the money. Elisa strives to be as equal and as powerful as the men in her society. She constantly pushes the boundary of her female role but also yearns for much more passion in her life. Even though Elisa is portrayed as strong in reality she faces many struggles.
Elisa is stuck between her femininity and masculinity. At the beginning of the story Elisa is described wearing masculine clothing; she wore a mans black hat, clod-hopper shoes, big corduroy apron, and heavy leather gloves. Stanley Renner states Elisa dresses in clothing that hides and protects her femininity (309). Mordecai Marcus suggest Elisas masculine dress; the strength of her hands; her exertions to plan, protect, and nurture her gigantic Chrysanthemums makes Elisa struggle between both a feminine and masculine role (55). It is evident that Elisas femininity and beauty lies within her Chrysanthemums, but her strong protectiveness gives her a masculine role. Even when Elisa sees her husband before their evening out she stiffened and her face grew tight (790). Marcus believes this action suggests feelings of superiority over her husband, a sudden distaste for someone to whom she must play the woman (57). It is difficult for Elisa to break through her masculinity and clearly just play the woman role. Even though Elisa wants to feel superior and strong she still wants to be loved and desires more passion from her husband.
Elisas relationship with her husband is one of her biggest struggles. Stanley Renner describes Henry as decent but dull and believes Henry is content with the way things are in their marriage and therefore he ignores her lack of fulfillment in keeping house and raising flowers (306). Henry looks past Elisas beautiful and hard work in her garden and mentions he wish she would work in the orchard. Henry should praise Elisa for the hard work she has done around the farm and admire the beauty she has grown. Henry is a loyal provider for Elisa but there seems to be no passion or romance in their relationship. Elizabeth McMahan agrees when she mentions this couple has confidence and mutual respect for each other but these qualities are not the only thing Elisa desires in her marriage (454). Henry seems to lack everything Elisa is yearning for.
Some scholars say Elisa being childless brings upon her frustrations while others believe that isnt the problem.
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