Bobbi Gibb Character Analysis

On April 19 1966, Bobbi Gibb became the first women to run in the Boston Marathon—disguised as a man in men’s clothing. Growing up, Gibb was always passionate about running. She spent her adolescent and adult years running for her own enjoyment. After she witnessed her first marathon, Gibb felt the desire to participate in the marathon as a runner. Thus, she took it upon herself to train without professional assistance. By the end of her training, she was able to run 40 miles in one stretch; Gibb submitted her application to organization overseeing the marathon, feeling confident in her ability to perform efficiently. However, the organization rejected her application, asserting that women were not allowed because it was a common belief that women did …show more content…
(Katz). In every social function, the balance of women and men is unequal. Women are restricted to the social behavior that is expected of them, dictated by society. Society expects women to be submissive and frowns upon the thought that women can participate in activities that is normally done by males. Meanwhile, society applauds men when they boast of their masculinity, at the expense of striking down women, physically, emotionally, or mentally. Hurston explores the inequality of women in her novel, “Their Eyes Were Watching God.” with female protagonist, Janie, to exhibit the frustrations felt by women as Janie tries to achieve her hopes and dreams. However, the obstacles Janie faces as she experiences three different marriages with three different men who exerts their control over Janie in different ways, critiques the mindset on a woman’s place in society. Although women have gained significant recognition due to women rights activists, Hurston’s portrayal of Janie in her novel TEWWG demonstrates the stereotypes that alienates women from men on the equality