Gender Inequality in A Doll's House & Streetcar

Gender Inequality in Classic Plays

Introduction: Societal Context

In the literary works A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen (published in Norway, 1879) and A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams (published in the US, 1947), discrimination against women is strongly evident. Throughout history, societies and cultures have often placed women at a disadvantage compared to men. This disparity can be witnessed through the characterizations, the language, and the societal context presented in these plays.

Characterization: Portraying Female Vulnerability

Characterization effectively portrays the plays' themes by defining each character's role. Both Nora in A Doll's House and Stella in A Streetcar Named Desire often appear weak and vulnerable when confronted by the dominant male figures in their lives. The men, like Torvald and Stanley, are frequently depicted as strong and confident, possessing authority. Torvald's line, "It's incredible how expensive it is for a man to keep a little spendthrift," suggests the man supports the woman financially, portraying her as dependent. Conversely, Stanley is portrayed as powerful through metaphors like "feathered male among chickens." Here, women are likened to chickens, highlighting their perceived lack of authority compared to the dominant male.

Language: Reflecting Gender Disparity

The language used throughout these works also reveals the disadvantages faced by women. Certain phrases demonstrate this power imbalance. Stella's line to Stanley, "...you haven't given me a chance to, honey," reflects her deference, even when he treats her condescendingly. Nora's concern, "Just think how awkward and humiliating it would be for Torvald," shows her prioritizing her husband's reputation over her own needs. The societal expectation for women to "keep a firm hold on her emotions" further illustrates this; women were expected to suppress feelings, as open expression was frowned upon, while men faced fewer such restrictions. These linguistic differences and dialogue dynamics underscore the disparity in treatment and expected behavior between men and women in these plays.