I'm having a little trouble decide what the role of women were. I'm thinking something along the lines that women were expected to be caregivers and to clean the house and stuff with no freedom.
Any help is appreciated. Thank you!
You would be correct. From the story, The Chrysanthemums, we can infer that Steinbeck embraced the old saying, "a woman's place is in the home." Elisa's husband certainly believes that she should be content.... as does the stranger, who discourages her desire to travel about on her own. Steinbeck, none-the-less, also seems to understand Elisa's desires. Possibly, if we read between the lines, we will actually see that he might be attempting to open the eyes of those who believe Elisa should be content..... possibly, he supports her desire for independence. Maybe, Steinbeck is recognizing that Elisa and all women have an innate need for things "outside" the home..... whatever form they might take.
