Gender Synthesis Essay

The influence of patriarchal values and the continued dominance of men have often resulted in the denigration and subordination of women. These values remain embedded in many cultures, and as a result, people are conditioned to assume specific roles – men as the dominant figure and women as the subordinate. Under the patriarchal system, women are expected to adhere to hyper-feminine qualities, such as passivity and submissiveness. Social segregations based on gender has normalized the outlook on women as inferior beings. In many Asian cultures, women are socialized into one role - an obedient housekeeper – while men are awarded a multitude of social opportunities (Pyke 38). The demotion of women to an inferior status gives rise to the disrespect

However, Olivier regards her resistance as “ridiculous” because she “[does not] need to work” (Sunèe 216). Men are considered the breadwinners (Espiritu 15); therefore, a female attempting to assume a man’s role is “ridiculous,” further belittling the status of women (216). Sunèe emphasizes that women are expected to sit and watch from the sidelines, allowing men to assume authority. The act of standing aside suggests that women are incapable of accomplishing tasks that are qualified for a man. When women relinquish their freedom to male superiority, men acquire more power over the relationship, which heightens their masculinity. Due to established gender stereotypes, men are inclined to believe that the degree of their masculinity defines their manhood; therefore, the domination of women, which is considered a masculine trait, reinforces the reputation as a “man.”

When masculinity is threatened, Sunée emphasizes that Olivier asserts his authority over her to compensate for the feeling of powerlessness, revealing the vulnerability of males. Since Sunèe seeks external support from another man, “Olivier . . . feels powerless” because his masculinity is compromised (Sunèe 214). Feeling