A Woman Lost in a Patriarchal Society Feminism and gender differences contribute a major role in the works of authors from the 18th and 19th century. During that point in history, women were essentially treated as second-class citizens without the ability to do anything less they faced judgment and ostracization from members of society. Women were not allowed to vote, own property nor be accepted into prominent leading positions. Instead, many were required to stay in the home and care for the family which mainly included the well being of their husband. Women lacked the freedom and independence they not only wanted but needed due to a society run patriarchal views that hindered the growth of women. Not only were they expected to reside in the home but women were also tied down through marriage with the expectation of blindly following their husband without challenging their authority. Kate Chopin’s short story, “Story of an Hour”, uncovers the chilling truth of how women were perceived to have longed and enjoyed marriage during the 18th and 19th century when in actuality many felt confined, trapped and imprisoned due to what society and men wanted them to do. The story reveals that the impending pressures of having to become a good wife and mother along with patriarchal societal oppression oftentimes pressures a woman into experiencing a psychological breakdown that can result in fatal consequences.
Chopin begins the story with the protagonist, Mrs. Mallard, being told