Gender Roles In The Incredible Woman By Margaret Atwood

In the early 20th century, women were forced to “occupy a secondary place in a male-dominated, consumer society” (Mouda 1). They were used for the fulfillment of male needs and desires. This secondary position is imposed by social traditions by the control of men. It prevents women from being free and independent individuals equal to men. Feminists are determined to correct the cultural obstacles globally and to eradicate the gender biased principles so women can be equal to men in society. In The Edible Woman, Margaret Atwood reveals to readers the socially imposed gender roles and the hardships women face in attempting to liberate themselves from these inequalities in a patriarchal society. Atwood depicts women overcoming identity struggles,

Her refusal of food represents her refusal of the male-dominated society that she lives in. Marian feels that “‘[Peter has] been trying to destroy [her]. […] [He has] been trying to assimilate [her]’” (Atwood 301). She makes him “a substitute, something [he’ll] like much better,’” a cake that represents her (301). When Peter refuses to eat the cake, Marian eats it instead. This demonstrates that she is in control because she consumes herself instead of being consumed by Peter. By making this cake, Marian reclaims her identity. She refuses to be dominated by Peter any longer. After breaking off the engagement with Peter, Marian begins to eat the cake without feeling disgusted. Her body stops rejecting food when she finally makes a decision for herself. Being able to consume food again means Marian accepts her self and does not feel compelled to live according to societal norm. She defies the feminine roles inflicted by society and becomes her own person. Food now symbolizes Marian’s freedom from the need to find herself instead of her feeling consumed by