The Bell Jar

“The Bell Jar”, which is written by Sylvia Plath, indicates that patriarchal society has many effects on women. Men have power over women in both direct and indirect ways. In this paper, I would like to concern about Esther and patriarchy. Men use their power directly to oppress Esther. Also they use power indirectly to set up social values and sexual stereotyping which have many effects on Esther.

To begin with men’s power that affects Esther directly, there is the issue of sexual discrimination that is shown obviously in the novel. In the patriarchal society, men are in-control. Also, men have women in their power. Women are oppressed by men. As for Esther, men have many effects on her life. There are many men who oppress her.

Firstly, Marco, who falls in love with his cousin, has almost raped her. He can’t have his wish fulfilled because his cousin is going to be a nun. Esther doesn’t have any idea that a man who falls in love with his cousin will see her as a material. He curses the word “slut” at her. She is very disappointed. The thing he does with her is one of the causes that make her break down.

Secondly, Irwin, whom Esther meets at the library, doesn’t have responsibility. E

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Women should have equality as same as men. Then, she feels that she deserves to have punishment because she doesn’t suppose to stay beyond women’s areas. After Esther sleeps with Irwin, she has hemorrhage and must go to see a doctor. They set up these social values and sexual stereotyping which have many effects on Esther. These are roles and duties which women are supposed to be. There should be gender justice in society. ” In the patriarchal society, men are powerful. 64) Incidentally, her mother sends her some article that is about reserving virginity before merry. Instead of making her comfort, he hurts her body. “ Then something bent down and took hold of me and shook me like the end of the world.

First of all, women are not expected to have talent and intelligence more than men. She has internalized values, which are patriarchal values. Instead of feeling guilty, he asks her to see him again. Whee-ee-ee-ee-ee, it shrilled,…, and with each flash a great jolt drubbed me till I thought my bones would break and the sap fly out of me like a split plant.

Approximate Word count = 1320
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)

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