Gender Stereotypes In 2 Samuel 13

Here in the twenty-first century, we have many gender stereotypes that penetrate our societies. Some of these are not always experienced by everyone, yet the fact remains that they still exist. These modern perspectives are obviously not the same as ancient Israel, but we as the reader oftentimes read modern gender stereotypes into the Scripture. It is important to examine the text closely in order to observe how these labels may be reinforced or broken. 2 Samuel 13 is a story that deals with many gender stereotypes throughout. Each character follows, bends, or breaks stereotypes in their own unique ways. However, in order to understand this, gender stereotypes must be defined. The Dictionary of Sociology defines gender stereotypes as “one-sided and exaggerated images of men and women which are deployed repeatedly in everyday life” (Encyclopedia). Health Guidance lists many of these stereotypes that people believe. They report that women have been and are overall considered the weaker gender. Some of these beliefs are that women are and should be quieter, are weaker than men, …show more content…
In 2 Samuel 13 he is one of the main characters. This story starts with his desire to be with Tamar for a meeting. He continues much further though as he is driven by his lust to the point of raping with his stepsister and then casting her away. In verse 14 this oppression and rape is described “and being stronger than she, he forced her and lay with her.” This is the typical aggressive characteristic that oftentimes describes males. Also, by sending her away after the rape, he is further enforcing the belief that women are objects and don’t really matter (Anderson 175). What is interesting is that he is very emotional with his actions. His emotions change quickly which is oftentimes associated with femininity. Overall, Amnon is described as an impulsive and aggressive man which fits the masculine