The word ‘conflict’ implies emotions like anger and nerve-shattering stressful discussions, however, conflict is more than a mere discussion. It is something meaningful that can impact someone’s entire life, and it cannot be ignored. Conflict is difficult but it leads to growth and change, as seen in John Steinbeck’s short story, “The Chrysanthemums.” The protagonist, Elisa Allen goes through multiple internal and external conflicts that cause major change in her life.
To begin, in the 1930’s discrimination was not just limited to race, men and women at this time lived extremely different lives. For example, they had different roles in the household and were regarded in society in very different ways. Men were supposed to provide for the family and work, while women stayed home and had domestic responsibilities like taking care of the kids, cooking, and cleaning. Elisa Allen could not accept her limited role in society as a woman, she says, “You might be surprised to have a rival some time. I can sharpen scissors, too… I could show you what a woman might do” (Steinbeck). This shows that Elisa is not only unwilling to accept her role as a woman, but also wants to speak her mind and engage in activities …show more content…
Though she experiences sadness, Elisa has hope that in the future she will be happy, accept her role in society, and be content with who she is. Steinbeck shows that no matter what there will be people that try to disrupt progress, like the men in Elisa’s life, but also that change is inevitable. Elisa will always have something holding her back, and her frustration towards society will continue because she refuses to speak out against a man. Nevertheless, the independent, strong willed mindset of Elisa is what changed the culture and stereotypes of women in America
To begin, in the 1930’s discrimination was not just limited to race, men and women at this time lived extremely different lives. For example, they had different roles in the household and were regarded in society in very different ways. Men were supposed to provide for the family and work, while women stayed home and had domestic responsibilities like taking care of the kids, cooking, and cleaning. Elisa Allen could not accept her limited role in society as a woman, she says, “You might be surprised to have a rival some time. I can sharpen scissors, too… I could show you what a woman might do” (Steinbeck). This shows that Elisa is not only unwilling to accept her role as a woman, but also wants to speak her mind and engage in activities …show more content…
Though she experiences sadness, Elisa has hope that in the future she will be happy, accept her role in society, and be content with who she is. Steinbeck shows that no matter what there will be people that try to disrupt progress, like the men in Elisa’s life, but also that change is inevitable. Elisa will always have something holding her back, and her frustration towards society will continue because she refuses to speak out against a man. Nevertheless, the independent, strong willed mindset of Elisa is what changed the culture and stereotypes of women in America