Blog #2

As I continue to read Go Set a Watchman, a theme that becomes apparent is gender roles. It is important to note that the novel takes place in the 1950s because during this period in time women were expected to remain at home to run the household and take care of children. This novel stresses that all women should act a certain way and this causes conflicts with the main character, Jean Louise. Ever since her youth, Jean Louise has been a tomboy and although she has grown up more feminine these traits are still noticeably apparent. Gender norms become noticeable in the novel during one of Jean Louise’s interactions with her aunt Alexandra. Her aunt remarks to her, “I do wish this time you’d try to dress better while your home. Folks in town get the wrong impression of you.” Jean Louise responds by saying that she doesn’t care what the town thinks of her implying she likes the way she is and won’t change for the town and the town won’t certainly change her. Other examples include the many conversions between Jean Louise and her lover Hank, the most prominent one is about how Jean Louise can be a good girlfriend. Hank remarks, “Hold your tongue. Don’t argue with a man, especially when you know you can beat him. Smile a lot. Make him feel big.” It seems to me that Hank believes women are inferior to women and wants Jean Louise’s life to revolve solely around him. These conflicting ideas are a sure sign that their relationship isn't going to work out. Jean Louise has yet to succumb to her town’s pressures but will she continue to fight back or give in?