Question

In William Faulkner's story, "A Rose for Emily," the main character Emily becomes isolated. This phenomenon is explained by the fact that, "After her father's death she went out very little." What can this quote suggest about gender roles?

A. Women were independent.
B. Women were dependent on men.
C. Women were property owners.
D. Gender roles have not changed since the 1930s.

Answer 1

The quote from 'A Rose for Emily' suggests that the main character, Emily, is a depiction of the gender-dependent roles of women in early 20th-century Southern society, reflecting societal norms and the limited autonomy of women at the time.

Step-by-step explanation:

In William Faulkner's story, "A Rose for Emily," the main character's isolation after the death of her father and her subsequent withdrawal from society is a portrayal of gender roles in the South during the early 20th century. The quote suggests that Emily's social standing and way of life were greatly affected by the men in her life, indicating a clear sign of dependence on men. This dependency is further emphasized by societal expectations that painted women as homemakers and moral guardians, limiting their autonomy and freedom. Despite some women achieving autonomy through education and commercial opportunities, the overall picture painted by Faulkner's work, including 'Barn Burning' and the more overarching themes in his other works, is the human heart in conflict with the gender roles and societal norms of the time.

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