Gender War !! Drama Paper 01

David Rosario

Professor Mignano-Brady

EGL 102: Drama Paper #01

February 17 2023

Gender inequality is a pervasive issue that has existed for centuries and affects various aspects of life, including the social, economic, and political spheres. It involves discrimination against individuals based on their gender, with females typically being at a disadvantage. This issue is highlighted in many works of literature, including Sophocles’ Antigone and Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire.

In Antigone, gender inequality is a significant theme depicted through the character of Antigone herself. As a woman, she is expected to conform to societal norms and not challenge the king's authority, Creon. However, Antigone defies these norms and chooses to bury her brother, Polyneices, despite the king's decree. The play highlights the patriarchal society of ancient Greece, where women were relegated to inferior roles.

Similarly, A Streetcar Named Desire depicts gender inequality through the character of Blanche DuBois. Blanche is a woman who has been subjected to abuse and mistreatment by men. She is constantly belittled and objectified, and her desire for independence and autonomy is thwarted by the male-dominated society in which she lives.

In both plays, the theme of gender inequality is depicted through the characterization of female characters, the setting in which the plays take place, and the time period in which they were written. These themes are also prevalent in the modern-day, where women in countries such as Afghanistan, China, and Cuba continue to face discrimination and oppression due to their gender.

The article "Gender Inequality in the Welfare State: Sex Segregation in Housework, 1965–2003" by Jennifer L Hook highlights the persistent issue of gender inequality in contemporary society. The article examines the division of labor in households and how women are expected to perform the majority of domestic work. The author notes that despite advancements in gender equality, there has been little change in the gendered division of labor within households.

This article connects to the theme of male dominance in Antigone and A Streetcar Named Desire. The societal expectation that women perform domestic work is a form of gender inequality that has persisted for centuries. Women are still expected to perform most household tasks and childcare, while men are often absolved of these responsibilities. This expectation perpetuates the idea of male dominance and reinforces gender inequality.

In conclusion, gender inequality is a significant theme prevalent in many works of literature, including Antigone and A Streetcar Named Desire. These plays highlight the patriarchal society of the past and present and the persistent issue of gender inequality. The article by Jennifer L Hook further emphasizes the need to address gender inequality in contemporary society and work towards creating a more equal and just world.