Arlie Hochs Wife's Wife Essay

Who declares what a woman’s duty is and how she is supposed to spend her life? Is it the natural law, religion, or a man-made theory? It is known by many that a woman’s duty is to be the nurturer and caretaker of the home; and if she is not adequate in performing what is expected of her she does not fit the depiction of an excellent wife. However, women today have taken the initiative to challenge what is expected of them. Modern day women are more educated and applying for jobs outside of their homes. Although this is a tremendous progress, studies have revealed that divorce rates have increased. Authors Judy Brady and Arlie Hochschild attack possible causes in their essays. In Brady’s piece she embodies an exasperated wife who is exhausted …show more content…
Based on their perception, that determines the outcome of the marriage. My uncle and aunt portray an unsuccessful marriage because of gender roles and unbalanced work schedules. My uncle entered his marriage with an established idea and expectations of his picture-perfect wife. He wanted his house to be sterilized and spotless at all times. He wanted his meal to be made daily. Like Brady states, my uncle wanted his clothes cleaned and ironed at all times: “I want a wife who will keep my clothes cleaned, ironed, mended, replaced when need be” (151).This situation reminds me of my aunt’s and uncle’s family. Because they had two children, my uncle believed that it was my aunt’s responsibility to be their caretaker. It was her job to prepare them for school, cook breakfast and drop them to school. Brady also says, “I want a wife that will make sure my children are fed and properly cleaned” (150). Then after school, my aunt picks them up, drop them to their various activities, and help them with homework just like the ideal wife in Brady’s essay. “I want a wife who arranges for their schooling and make sure they have an adequate social life” (Brady 150). In the midst of all these jobs my aunt was a working and career driven