Women's Roles in The Stronger, Trifles, and Doubt: a Parable

Activists and reformers spent nearly a century fighting for women's rights, leading to significant disagreements and conflicts within society. Traditionally, a "true woman" was viewed as a religious, submissive wife and mother, dedicated to the needs of her home and family. While some women accepted this treatment, others believed that a movement was necessary to secure their rights. Despite the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, they continued to be perceived as second-class citizens. Men might argue that women are just as capable as they are; however, biological differences—such as higher levels of estrogen in women and testosterone in men—suggest that we are not inherently equal. The initial fight for rights was fundamentally about women's status as citizens and the roles they were expected to fulfill.

Women’s Empowerment in “The Stronger,” “Trifles,” and “Doubt: A Parable”

The plays “The Stronger” by August Strindberg, “Trifles” by Susan Glaspell, and “Doubt: A Parable” by John Shanley all explore the themes of women's roles and the dynamics of power. Women's suffrage gained momentum at the end of the 19th century and culminated in 1920, coinciding with the era in which Strindberg's and Glaspell's works were created. Shanley's play, written in 2004, continues to reflect the struggle for women's empowerment. The significance of “The Stronger” lies in its portrayal of two women—one who speaks and one who remains silent—illustrating the complexities of female strength.

In “The Stronger,” the traditional view of a true woman as a submissive wife is challenged through the characters of Mrs. X and Mrs. Y. Mrs. X, the married woman, dominates the conversation, expressing her thoughts and feelings, while Mrs. Y, the unmarried woman, listens silently. This dynamic highlights the contrasting ways in which women navigate their identities. Although socially Mrs. X appears to be the stronger woman due to her marriage and family, Mrs. Y's silence and nonverbal communication reveal a deeper strength. She embodies a maturity that transcends the verbal dominance of Mrs. X.

Mrs. X's relationship with her husband exemplifies the societal expectation for women to suppress their opinions. She refrains from expressing her thoughts to her husband, fearing it may disrupt their marriage. As the play unfolds, it is revealed that Mrs. Y was once Mrs. X's lover, which raises the question of who truly embodies strength. At the play's conclusion, Mrs. X acknowledges Mrs. Y's influence on her life, stating, “You received nothing from me, but you gave me much” (Strindberg 158). This moment encapsulates the idea that true strength can manifest in various forms, challenging the audience to reconsider their perceptions of power.

Women’s Roles in “Trifles”

In Glaspell's “Trifles,” the men in the play dismiss the women as inconsequential, viewing their concerns as mere “trifles.” The male characters, including Hale, the county attorney, and the sheriff, fail to recognize the significance of the women's observations. This dismissive attitude reinforces the theme of male dominance and the underestimation of women's capabilities. The setting—a farmhouse belonging to Mrs. Wright—serves as a microcosm of the broader societal dynamics at play. The men search for evidence of Mr. Wright's death, convinced that Mrs. Wright, as a woman, could not possibly be capable of such a crime.

The women, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, discover crucial evidence that the men overlook, including a dead canary with a broken cage. This discovery symbolizes Mrs. Wright's own entrapment and the lengths to which she went to break free from an oppressive marriage. The symbolism of the canary cage suggests that women will eventually escape the constraints imposed upon them by society. If the men had paid more attention to the women, they might have uncovered the truth behind Mr. Wright's death much sooner.

The Struggle for Power in “Doubt: A Parable”

Shanley's “Doubt: A Parable” also examines the theme of women's roles and the struggle for power. Sister Aloysius, the principal of a Catholic school, confronts Father Flynn regarding his inappropriate behavior. Despite her position of authority over the children, Sister Aloysius finds herself undermined by Father Flynn, who represents male dominance in both the church and society. The play showcases various female characters, including Sister James, who embodies innocence and naivety, and Mrs. Muller, who fears standing up to her husband.

Sister Aloysius's determination to confront Father Flynn highlights the challenges women face when asserting their authority. As she navigates her role, she recognizes that societal structures often favor men, making it difficult for women to be heard. Mrs. Muller’s resignation to her husband’s authority exemplifies the struggles many women face in asserting their independence. She states, “You’re not going against no man in a robe and win, Sister. He’s got the position” (Shanley 897). This sentiment underscores the pervasive nature of male dominance.

Conclusion

The portrayal of women in these three plays demonstrates the enduring impact of male dominance in society, from the 19th century to the present day. The narratives reveal how societal expectations shape women's roles, often relegating them to positions of subservience. The following table summarizes the key themes and messages conveyed in each play:

Overall, these plays reflect the ongoing struggle for women's equality and empowerment. Despite advancements over the years, women continue to face discrimination and undervaluation in various spheres of life. The resilience and strength displayed by female characters in these narratives serve as a reminder that the fight for equality is far from over. As society continues to evolve, it is imperative to recognize and appreciate the contributions of women, both in the past and present, and to support their ongoing quest for equal rights and recognition.

References:

Strindberg, August. The Stronger.
Glaspell, Susan. Trifles.
Shanley, John. Doubt: A Parable.