Stereotypes have long identified what is "male" and what is "female". These stereotypes, designated by society, determine what type of role each gender fulfills in society. ... " In this account, Freeman uses a variety of symbolism, along with the character of Louisa Ellis, to give women of the late 19th century a unified voice - to express through literature their desire for liberation and their quite pursuit of freedom from what men had determined them to be. ... In other words, she feels empowered by her breakup with Joe, which is the exact opposite of what a woman would be expected...

• Word Count: 2223
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: Undergraduate