A Jury of Her Peers

A Jury of Her Peers is a classic short story by American author Susan Glaspell. Written in 1916, the story explores gender roles and social expectations through its examination of two women's different reactions to an event that occurs within their community. The narrative follows Mrs Hale and Mrs Peters as they investigate the scene surrounding the death of Minnie Wright, who is accused of murdering her husband. As they explore the home more closely, it becomes clear that there are clues that may exonerate Minnie from any wrongdoing; however, these remain hidden to those outside her immediate circle.


Mrs Hale and Mrs Peters recognize how much has been taken away from Minnie due to society's expectations for married women at this time period – namely having little autonomy or control over her own life choices – thus creating empathy towards her plight among them both. This realization leads them on a journey where they attempt to provide justice for Minnie, despite knowing full well she will never receive such recompense legally or publicly given their societal position as housewives in rural America during this era. In doing so, Glaspell questions what constitutes true justice beyond just abiding by the law alone while also delving into themes concerning power dynamics between genders and classes at this time period too. Ultimately, 'A Jury Of Her Peers' serves as an example of early feminist literature that provides readers with insight into the struggles faced by women living under oppressive patriarchal systems even today.