Emancipation is a topic that is frequently addressed in literature and movies since it symbolises one of the most fundamental human wants. Coming-of-age stories about teens, in particular, frequently centre on their desire for freedom, whether from societal expectations, cultural traditions, or their limitations. "Looking for Alibrandi" by Melina Marchetta and "Bend it Like Beckham" by Gurinder Chadha are two examples of this topic. Both pieces show young women facing the difficulties of growing up in cultures that force certain expectations on them, and who must negotiate their way towards a better sense of personal independence. In Alibrandi and ‘Bend it Like Beckham’, family perspectives, cultural expectations, and self-perception are explored …show more content…
On page 120, he is described as having this ‘hood look’, wearing old jeans, a jumper with holes and the appearance of not shaving for days, causing a sketchy impression. Mama did not approve of Jacob, saying “Oh Josie,” she sighed shaking her head “Nona would have a fit.” The phrase ‘have a fit’, shows an explosion of anger often associated with tantrums and children. This indicates Nonna will resort to dominating childish behaviour to control and manipulate Josie’s freedom. Furthermore, the phrase “oh Josie” signifies Mama’s disappointment in Josie, expecting Josie to know the consequences of defying Nonna; the ‘gatekeeper’ of family social acceptability. Shortly after, mama says “The minute that movie ends tonight, I want you home, Josephine. I don’t know if I’m going to let you go out with this boy again either”. The use of the word ‘minute’ suggests her mother is eager to have Josie home as soon as possible, indicating a strong will to protect and care for her daughter. Additionally, the phrase ‘I don’t know if I’m going to let you go out with this boy again either.’ Shows a will to intervene with Josie’s personal life when she deems fit, protecting Nona’s …show more content…
After being caught playing soccer with men, Jess is forced to come home to be scolded by her parents. Jess’s mother was appalled, by Jess’s behaviour saying, “What family would want a daughter-in-law who can run around kicking football all day but can’t make round chapattis? Now that exams are over, I want you to learn full Punjabi dinner, meat, and vegetarian”. The mother's statement indicates that she thinks a daughter-in-law that cannot prepare traditional Punjabi food, such as round chapattis, is unsuitable for marriage. Further saying, Jess's love of football is less significant than appealing to the household's traditional expectations of women. Jess’s dad agreed with her mum remarking, “Your mother is right. You must start behaving like a proper woman, okay”. The word "proper" implies that there is a right and wrong way to be a woman, indicating that Jess's identity has been examined and assessed under an external standard. To meet this standard, Overall, Traditional gender roles, societal standards, and conformity have hindered Jess from pursuing her hobbies and developing her