The understanding of a "traditional" gender role depends on innumerable things. For instance it is important to know which time period is applied because of historical, cultural and social happenings in that time. Therefore, traditional gender roles are based on standards or norms created by society. The novel "Moon Tiger" written by Penelope Lively takes place in the century of the Great War and World War II. In that time, the two sociologists Talcott Parsons and Robert Freed Bales established the theory that gender roles of men and women are divided. The distinction is that the male gender role represents the function as a breadwinner and worker, whereas the female gender role is personified by childcaring tasks and domestic works. They suggest that traditional women and men are supposed to do certain things, and act in a particular manner. For thinking traditional, it is best going back to the Bible. Referenced to that, traditional thinking about gender roles also includes religion as well as the Bible for the sake of suggested and expected behavior patterns.
When analyzing traditional gender roles in Penelope Lively’s "Moon Tiger" it becomes obvious that Jasper corresponds with traditional gender roles, and Claudia is a character who does not comply with that. In the latter case, reasons for this purpose are nonconformities in the traditional thinking by means of the bible, the theory of Parsons and Bales, or general expected characteristic traits. In the following the term "traditional gender roles" or "traditional" refers to the already mentioned definitions.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- How Claudia complies with traditional gender roles
- Jasper's compliance with traditional gender roles
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines how the characters of Claudia and Jasper in Penelope Lively's novel, Moon Tiger, conform to or deviate from traditional gender roles. The study analyzes their actions and motivations in relation to societal expectations, religious doctrines, and psychological theories of gender.
- The definition and historical context of traditional gender roles
- The influence of societal norms, religious beliefs, and sociological theories on gender roles
- Claudia's independent nature and her defiance of traditional expectations
- Jasper's adherence to more traditional gender roles
- The complexities of relationships and family dynamics in the context of gender roles
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter establishes the context for analyzing traditional gender roles, defining them in relation to historical, cultural, and religious influences. It introduces the theoretical framework of Parsons and Bales, highlighting the division of instrumental and expressive roles between men and women. The chapter also sets the stage for analyzing the characters of Claudia and Jasper in Moon Tiger, anticipating their divergent approaches to traditional gender norms.
- How Claudia complies with traditional gender roles: This chapter focuses on Claudia's independent spirit and her unconventional approach to motherhood and marriage. It examines how her career as a reporter and historian challenges the traditional expectations of women's roles in society. The chapter also explores how Claudia's unconventional relationship with Jasper and her relationship with her daughter, Lisa, challenge traditional family structures.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper explores the complexities of gender roles through the lens of traditional expectations, societal norms, religious doctrines, and the interplay of personal choices and societal pressures. It focuses on the characters of Claudia and Jasper, analyzing their relationships, choices, and motivations in relation to traditional gender roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Claudia deviate from traditional gender roles in "Moon Tiger"?
Claudia is depicted as an independent spirit who defies societal expectations through her career as a reporter and historian, and her unconventional approach to motherhood and marriage.
Does Jasper conform to traditional gender roles?
Yes, Jasper represents a more traditional male role, aligning with societal norms of the mid-20th century regarding work and behavior.
What is the theoretical framework used for this gender analysis?
The paper utilizes the sociological theory of Talcott Parsons and Robert Freed Bales, which distinguishes between instrumental (male/provider) and expressive (female/domestic) roles.
In what historical context is the novel set?
The story takes place during the 20th century, specifically spanning the periods of the Great War and World War II.
What role does religion play in defining traditional roles in the text?
The analysis references biblical standards and religious expectations as a foundation for what society historically considered "traditional" behavior for men and women.
How is Claudia's relationship with her daughter Lisa described?
Their relationship is used to illustrate Claudia's nonconformity to traditional family structures and her struggle with the expected maternal role.
- Citation du texte
- Janine Bergmeir (Auteur), 2014, How the Characters of Claudia and Jasper comply with traditional Gender Roles in "Moon Tiger" by Penelope Lively, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/997423
