Upon deeper inspection the story has strong notes of feminism in the central character Elisa Allen. ... The drifter feigns great interest in Elisa's chrysanthemums and asks her many questions about them. ... Steinbeck makes it very easy to relate to this woman's struggle for strength and contentment in a life that does not meet her expectations. ... She sadly realizes that she can never live up to the expectations she places on herself....

• Word Count: 797
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

As stated by Omadjohwoefe "Men go for hunting, build houses and meet other survival expectations of the women. ... As Omadjohwoefe notes, "The prevailing division of labor between sexes has led to men and women assuming unequal position in terms of power, prestige and wealth ". ... Nigerian women place great importance on breastfeeding and the bond that it creates between mother and child ". ...

• Word Count: 638
• Approx Pages: 3
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

The reader notes that a major theme of the three works is the long-term effect of outside pressure on the subjects from birth. ... Though she attempts to defy these expectations by cutting off her "great big nose" and "fat legs," in her death, the woman is displayed in her casket with cosmetics painted on and a beautiful turned-up putty nose. ... They went to great pains making themselves look perfect, hoping to attract a male. ...

• Word Count: 979
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

Critical readings of Chopin's works often note the tension between female characters and the society that surrounds them. ... Mallard feel free, free from oppression, and free from the burden of society's expectations. ... The Storm, another great story written by Kate Chopin expresses yet again the theme of a male dominated society. ...

• Word Count: 1053
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School