Compositions for emancipation and autonomy: Distorted syntax and poisoning in Shakespeare’s and Gilman’s critique of the marginalized role of women

Abstract

This thesis is a study of female characterization through dialogue in The Tempest (1611) and a close reading of The Yellow Wall-paper (1892), which explores how these texts problematize socio-cultural traditions in the backdrop of the marginalized role of women. These two texts are taken from two radically different genres and eras; however, the female voices in both The Tempest and The Yellow Wallpaper share the desire for equality and change and have the potential to raise awareness to the ongoing gender-based discrimination. In The Tempest, the critique is expressed through distorted syntax, specifically in terms of subordinate clauses and tone, while in The Yellow Wallpaper, the sadistic actions of John are juxtaposed with roles forced on women and the toxicity of the patriarchy.

This thesis is a study of female characterization through dialogue in The Tempest (1611) and a close reading of The Yellow Wall-paper (1892), which explores how these texts problematize socio-cultural traditions in the backdrop of the marginalized role of women. These two texts are taken from two radically different genres and eras; however, the female voices in both The Tempest and The Yellow Wallpaper share the desire for equality and change and have the potential to raise awareness to the ongoing gender-based discrimination. In The Tempest, the critique is expressed through distorted syntax, specifically in terms of subordinate clauses and tone, while in The Yellow Wallpaper, the sadistic actions of John are juxtaposed with roles forced on women and the toxicity of the patriarchy.