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What is the symbolism of the yellow wallpaper?

A.Freedom of expression


B.Repression of women


C.Fear of confinement


D.Joy of discovery

User Frozenthia
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1 Answer

7 votes

B. Repression of women

The yellow wallpaper in Charlotte Perkins Gilman's short story "The Yellow Wallpaper" is a symbol of the societal and institutional repression of women during the 19th century. The narrator, who is suffering from postpartum depression and is confined to her room, becomes fixated on the wallpaper and begins to see a woman trapped behind the pattern. This symbolizes the narrator's own confinement and oppression, as well as the confinement and oppression of women in general during this time period. The wallpaper also represents the patriarchal control over women's lives, as the narrator's husband, a physician, dismisses her illness and insists on her confinement. The yellow color of the wallpaper is also significant, as it represents sickness and decay. Overall, the yellow wallpaper serves as a powerful symbol of the repression of women in society.

User Jacquelene
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