This analysis examines the portrayal of women in the film Out of Africa and its relationship to the conventional lives of women in the early 20th century. Examining the historical context and societal expectations of women during this period helps us to better understand how the film portrays Karen Blixen as someone who challenges gender norms. In addition, we will consider why the film emphasizes the feminist qualities of its protagonist. In the early 20th century, women were generally confined to domestic roles and limited opportunities, but Out of Africa portrays Karen Blixen as a woman who defies these conventional wisdom. Karen Blixen's unconventional decision to own and manage a coffee plantation in Africa went against the norms that …show more content…
In Out of Africa, Karen Blixen's character establishes herself as the owner of a coffee plantation against her society's expectations (Blixen, 1985). Blixen's leadership of the plantation demonstrates her determination to challenge gender norms and seek autonomy beyond the household. By participating in her business dealings, making important decisions, and leading her employees, she affirms her own authority and independence.
Karen Blixen's commitment to African culture and African relations challenges society's expectations. Women in the early 20th century were often reluctant to interact with other cultures or form relationships outside their own communities. The film chronicles Karen Blixen and her deep ties to her local African community and her romantic relationship with Dennis Finch Hutton, who challenges her societal norms (Blixen, 1985). Blixen's willingness to immerse herself in African traditions, customs and relationships broke away from the ethnocentric and colonialist thinking that was prevalent at the time. Her respect and genuine interest in her African culture and her quest for love and companionship go against the expectations of her society at the