Cannery Row and “The Chrysanthemums”

Throughout time, much has been discussed about the roles in which women and men have played. Men have always been seen as leaders and have held down positions of power throughout history, but there is also a saying “behind every man is a greater woman”. Although women had been restricted in gaining roles in which decisions were to be made, they had been able to use the influence of feminine charms and gentle persuasion. Through gently guiding their men folk into believing that the idea or the thought was there own. Men have been bought up with the notion to protect, whilst women had been bought up with the notion to nurture. John Steinbeck’s two narrative texts, Cannery Row and “The Chrysanthemums” both convey the values and attitudes of the 1930’s, which are revealed through class and gender. Through the use of class representation, Steinbeck has managed to comment on poverty, different levels of class in society and also how people are judged on their material possessions...