Oppression

Definition

Oppression refers to the prolonged and unjust exercise of power, where individuals or groups are subjected to harsh treatment or control, often based on characteristics like gender, race, or social status. It involves systemic inequality and can manifest through various societal norms and institutions that limit the rights and freedoms of those being oppressed. This concept is deeply interwoven with themes of autonomy, identity, and resistance, especially within narratives that highlight individual struggles against societal constraints.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Hannah Webster Foster's 'The Coquette', the main character, Eliza Wharton, experiences oppression through societal expectations regarding women's roles and their limited choices in love and marriage.
2. The narrative exposes the tension between individual desires and societal pressures, showcasing how oppressive social norms can dictate personal destinies.
3. Gothic elements often highlight themes of oppression by creating atmospheres filled with fear and confinement, reflecting characters' internal struggles against external forces.
4. Oppression in literature is frequently represented through characters who face restrictions on their freedom and autonomy, serving as a critique of contemporary societal structures.
5. Resistance against oppression becomes a key theme, as characters challenge or subvert societal norms that seek to control their lives.

Review Questions

• How does 'The Coquette' illustrate the concept of oppression in relation to its main character's choices?
  • 'The Coquette' illustrates oppression through Eliza Wharton's struggle against societal norms that dictate acceptable behavior for women. As she navigates her relationships and desires, the pressure from her family and society limits her autonomy and forces her to conform to restrictive expectations. This conflict highlights how oppression manifests in personal relationships and reflects broader cultural attitudes toward women's independence during that time.
• Discuss how Gothic elements contribute to the theme of oppression in literature.
  • Gothic elements like dark settings, isolation, and psychological torment amplify themes of oppression by creating a sense of dread and entrapment. These elements often symbolize the characters' internal battles against overwhelming societal forces. For instance, the use of eerie landscapes or confined spaces can mirror the constraints placed upon characters by oppressive social structures, making their struggles more poignant and relatable.
• Evaluate the role of resistance in narratives dealing with oppression, particularly within the contexts of 'The Coquette' and Gothic literature.
  • Resistance plays a critical role in narratives about oppression by showcasing characters who confront societal limitations imposed upon them. In 'The Coquette', Eliza's attempts to assert her independence represent a form of rebellion against traditional expectations for women. Similarly, in Gothic literature, characters often seek escape from oppressive circumstances, reflecting broader themes of liberation. By depicting resistance, these narratives not only critique existing power structures but also inspire readers to consider the importance of personal agency in overcoming societal constraints.

Related terms

Marginalization: The social process of being pushed to the edge of society, where individuals or groups lose their rights, access to resources, and representation.

Patriarchy:

A social system in which males hold primary power, dominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

Empowerment:

The process of gaining freedom and power to do what you want or to control what happens to you, often seen as a counteraction to oppression.