In the novel The Wife of Martin Guerre, by Janet Lewis, patriarchy is a major theme. This theme influences and affects every single character in the novel. Patriarchy plays a role between the relationships of Martin Guerre and both his father and Uncle Pierre. It causes Bertrande to accept the returned Martin Guerre (Arnold du Tilh) and eventually affects the accusation that he is an imposter.
The story Of Bertrande de Rols takes place during 16th century medieval times. In this medieval society social hierarchy is of importance. Patriarchy was so large during this time, that it maintained such a strict social hierarchy. The theme is a ball and chain attached to many of the main characters. How can patriarchy become these shackles? In this …show more content…
He holds power over every single person in the estate. Leaving Martin as a subservient to this father and not a typical father and son relationship. Monsieur Guerre represents both security, authority and no one should question his authority. Despite that, at some point in the story, Martin decided to go hunt a bear without his father’s approval. For which Martin paid, by having his father strike him with his right hand knuckles on the left side of his jaw. This type of punishment would be seen unjust and cruel now days. Even Bertrande said this to Martin, “It was not just…[to which Martin responded] certainly it was just. I didn’t ask him if I might go.” (Pg. 18) It is clear that the only reason, Martin accepts this as proper behavior is due to patriarchy. Even his own mother did not question his father for such punishment. Instead, she made sure Martin understood, why he must follow his father’s absolute authority without question. Madame Guerre States, “You understand, my son, it is necessary…if you have no obedience for your father, your son will have none for you, and then what will become of the family? Ruin. Despair.” (Pg. 18) Martin understood his place within his family and neither did he question his father’s behavior. Just as he understood his place, he also realized that he would not be free of his authority until his father’s …show more content…
Bertrande could not seek justice without the aid of a male figure from the household. Patriarchy limited women such as Bertrande even when it came to seeking truth and justice. Before she could bring such accusations to court, she had to convince the head of the household. After she had to convinced Uncle Pierre, she was able to seek the truth and justice that she, so desired. If Betrande had not succeeded, she would have been a victim of this social construct leaving her to feel
The story Of Bertrande de Rols takes place during 16th century medieval times. In this medieval society social hierarchy is of importance. Patriarchy was so large during this time, that it maintained such a strict social hierarchy. The theme is a ball and chain attached to many of the main characters. How can patriarchy become these shackles? In this …show more content…
He holds power over every single person in the estate. Leaving Martin as a subservient to this father and not a typical father and son relationship. Monsieur Guerre represents both security, authority and no one should question his authority. Despite that, at some point in the story, Martin decided to go hunt a bear without his father’s approval. For which Martin paid, by having his father strike him with his right hand knuckles on the left side of his jaw. This type of punishment would be seen unjust and cruel now days. Even Bertrande said this to Martin, “It was not just…[to which Martin responded] certainly it was just. I didn’t ask him if I might go.” (Pg. 18) It is clear that the only reason, Martin accepts this as proper behavior is due to patriarchy. Even his own mother did not question his father for such punishment. Instead, she made sure Martin understood, why he must follow his father’s absolute authority without question. Madame Guerre States, “You understand, my son, it is necessary…if you have no obedience for your father, your son will have none for you, and then what will become of the family? Ruin. Despair.” (Pg. 18) Martin understood his place within his family and neither did he question his father’s behavior. Just as he understood his place, he also realized that he would not be free of his authority until his father’s …show more content…
Bertrande could not seek justice without the aid of a male figure from the household. Patriarchy limited women such as Bertrande even when it came to seeking truth and justice. Before she could bring such accusations to court, she had to convince the head of the household. After she had to convinced Uncle Pierre, she was able to seek the truth and justice that she, so desired. If Betrande had not succeeded, she would have been a victim of this social construct leaving her to feel