"The Yellow Wallpaper": Portrayal of Women's Oppression in The 19th Century

Introduction

An exemplification essay aims to provide examples or evidence to support a claim or argument. In this essay, we will exemplify the portrayal of women in the 19th century as depicted in Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper." The short story reflects the societal expectations of women, their lack of freedom and independence, and the impact of such restrictions on their mental and emotional health. The main thesis of this essay is that "The Yellow Wallpaper" serves as a portrayal of female oppression and the consequences of neglecting women's mental health.

The portrayal of women in the 19th century

In the 19th century, society expected women to be submissive, obedient, and focused on domestic duties. Women had limited choices of education and career paths, and their lives revolved around their husbands and children. They had no political rights, and their voices were often silenced. As a result, women experienced a lack of freedom, independence, and agency, leading to mental and emotional distress.

The narrator's mental decline

The protagonist of "The Yellow Wallpaper" is a woman who is confined to her bedroom by her husband, who believes that she is suffering from hysteria. The narrator's initial mental state is fragile, but confinement exacerbates her condition. She becomes increasingly obsessed with the yellow wallpaper in her room, and her mental decline is evident through her erratic behavior and thoughts.

The symbolism of the yellow wallpaper

The yellow wallpaper in the narrator's room serves as a metaphor for her mental state. The wallpaper's physical characteristics, including its color, pattern, and texture, represent the narrator's deteriorating mental health. The wallpaper also symbolizes female oppression, as the narrator feels trapped and confined, much like women in society.

The role of the husband

The narrator's husband, John, neglects her mental health and dismisses her concerns. He is more concerned with his reputation and societal expectations than his wife's well-being. John's role in the narrator's confinement and his dismissal of her feelings and thoughts contribute to her mental decline.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Yellow Wallpaper" is a powerful exemplification of the oppression of women in the 19th century and the consequences of neglecting their mental health. The story reflects societal expectations of women, their lack of freedom and independence, and the impact on their mental and emotional health. Today, "The Yellow Wallpaper" remains relevant as women continue to fight for equality, agency, and the right to prioritize their mental health.