Question

"Write about the effect the narrative point of view has on the story. What information is Gilman able to provide by writing her story in the first person that she would not have been able to provide by writing her story in the third person?

Answer 1

The first-person narrative point of view in Gilman's story provides an intimate perspective of the protagonist's thoughts and feelings, and emphasizes the universality of her experiences by leaving her unnamed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The use of first-person narrative point of view in Gilman's story allows her to provide a more intimate and personal perspective on the events and emotions experienced by the female protagonist. By writing in the first person, Gilman is able to directly convey the protagonist's thoughts, feelings, and reactions, which helps the reader connect with her on a deeper level. Additionally, using first person point of view allows the reader to experience the story through the protagonist's eyes, making it easier to understand her perspective and relate to her struggles.

Furthermore, the decision to leave the female protagonist unnamed throughout the text serves to emphasize the universality of her experiences. By not giving her a specific name, Gilman invites readers to consider the protagonist as a representative of all women who have suffered from the societal constraints and oppression depicted in the story. This namelessness allows the reader to focus on the larger themes and issues being explored, rather than getting caught up in the individual identity of the protagonist.