Question

Culture and Setting in "The Yellow Wallpaper" Directions: Beside each bracket, label the parts of the Cultural Analysis (essay) below: explanation of culture, thesis, conclusion, analysis of how culture creates meaning. Thesis is done for you. Now, highlight or underline: Thesis sentence The oppressed group (according to the story) The explanation of the symbol and how the main character reacts to it The meaning or overarching message of the story

Answer 1

This is the information that corresponds to "The Yellow Wallpaper":

Thesis:

The thesis of the text is that women are often underestimated or ignored because people believe that men know best, even when it comes to women's own health.

The oppressed group:

Women

The explanation of the symbol:

The symbol in this text is the pattern that is found in the yellow wallpaper of the room. The pattern is one that resembles cage bars. This is meant to be a symbol for how the main character is trapped in the room and in her own mind.

How the main character reacts to it:

The main character is driven insane by the pattern, as she starts to believe that there is a woman trapped behind it.

The meaning or overarching message of the story:

The message of the story is that women should be listened to when they expressed their needs and concerns. This is especially important when it comes to their health.