Social Context in Glaspell Literary Development

Susan Keating Glaspell's background greatly influenced her to write the play "Trifles," a work that delves into the themes of gender roles and justice through a seemingly simple story of a murder investigation. Glaspell's experiences as a journalist, her personal life, and the societal norms of her time all contributed to the creation of this thought-provoking drama. By examining these influences, we can better understand how Glaspell crafted a narrative that challenges traditional notions of justice and highlights the complexities of female experience in the early 20th century.

One significant influence on Glaspell's writing was her work as a journalist for The Des Moines Daily News shortly after her graduation from college in 1899. During her time as a reporter, she covered the Hossack case, an incident involving an Iowa woman named Margaret Hossack who was accused of murdering her husband with an axe. Glaspell's reporting on this case provided her with firsthand insights into the public's reaction to female violence and the societal expectations placed on women. The parallels between the Hossack case and the plot of "Trifles" are evident, as both involve women pushed to extreme measures by oppressive domestic circumstances. In the play, Mrs. Wright's actions mirror those of Margaret Hossack, and the public's reaction to both women underscores the biases and prejudices of the time.

Another key influence on Glaspell's work was her personal life, particularly her relationship with her husband, George Gram Cook. Glaspell married Cook in 1913, and their marriage was marked by a shared interest in the arts but also by societal expectations of gender roles within a marriage. As Staci Stone notes, Glaspell felt pressure to conform to these expectations and feared that her marriage might suffer if she pursued her literary ambitions too aggressively. This tension is reflected in "Trifles" through the character of Mrs. Hale, who, along with Mrs. Peters, struggles against the limitations imposed by a male-dominated society. Glaspell's personal experiences with societal norms and marital dynamics undoubtedly informed her portrayal of the female characters in "Trifles" and their quest for justice.

In addition to her personal and professional experiences, the broader social context of the early 20th century also played a crucial role in shaping "Trifles." The play was written during a time when women were fighting for the right to vote and were largely excluded from positions of power, including serving on juries. This exclusion is significant in "Trifles," as the women characters discover evidence of Mrs. Wright's motive for murder but choose to conceal it from the men investigating the crime. Their decision raises questions about the nature of justice and the extent to which it can be truly served within a legal system that marginalizes women. By highlighting the women's perspective, Glaspell challenges the notion that justice is an objective truth and instead suggests that it is deeply influenced by one's social position and personal experiences.

Glaspell's development of the theme in "Trifles" is not only evident in the plot and characterization but also in her use of literary devices, particularly symbolism and irony. The title itself, "Trifles," is ironic, as it refers to the seemingly insignificant details that the male characters dismiss but which ultimately reveal the truth about the murder. The dead bird, a key symbol in the play, represents Mrs. Wright's lost freedom and serves as a catalyst for the women's realization of her plight. Through these symbols, Glaspell underscores the idea that what is deemed trivial by those in power can hold profound significance for those who are marginalized.

In conclusion, Susan Glaspell's "Trifles" is a rich and complex work that draws on her experiences as a journalist, her personal life, and the social dynamics of her time. By weaving together a believable plot, convincing characterization, and important literary devices, Glaspell explores the theme of female roles in society and the subjective nature of justice. Her ability to capture the nuances of women's experiences and challenge prevailing societal norms makes "Trifles" a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with audiences today. The play serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to marginalized voices and re-evaluating the structures of power and justice in our society.

Did you like this example?

338

18