Patriarchal society

Definition

A patriarchal society is a social system in which men hold primary power, predominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. This system often leads to the marginalization of women and reinforces traditional gender roles. In many cases, patriarchal norms and values are reflected in cultural expressions, including literature, where male perspectives and authority are often prioritized over female voices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Shakespearean comedies, the structure often emphasizes male dominance through the portrayal of male characters as decision-makers and leaders in social settings.
2. Female characters in these comedies frequently navigate a world dominated by male authority, which can lead to subversion of traditional roles or reinforcement of them.
3. Marriage is a common resolution in Shakespearean comedies, reflecting societal expectations that align with patriarchal norms where women are often seen as property transferred from father to husband.
4. Humor in Shakespearean comedies can serve as a critique of patriarchal values by highlighting the absurdities of rigid gender roles and expectations.
5. The tension between individual desires and societal norms showcases the struggle of female characters within a patriarchal framework, often leading to comedic situations.

Review Questions

• How does Shakespeare use humor to critique the dynamics of a patriarchal society in his comedies?
  • Shakespeare employs humor to expose the absurdities inherent in patriarchal dynamics by placing male characters in ludicrous situations that reveal their flaws and limitations. Through witty dialogue and situational comedy, he illustrates how rigid gender roles can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. This comedic lens allows audiences to reflect on the implications of these roles while also providing entertainment.
• Discuss the role of marriage in Shakespearean comedies as it relates to the concept of a patriarchal society.
  • Marriage in Shakespearean comedies is often depicted as an essential resolution that aligns with the expectations of a patriarchal society. Women are frequently portrayed as being traded or given away through marriage, reinforcing the idea that their value is tied to their relationships with men. However, some comedies also suggest that marriage can empower women by giving them agency or status within a male-dominated context, showcasing a nuanced perspective on these traditional roles.
• Evaluate how female characters in Shakespearean comedies either conform to or resist the norms of a patriarchal society, and what this reveals about gender dynamics during that era.
  • Female characters in Shakespearean comedies often oscillate between conforming to and resisting patriarchal norms. Characters like Portia from 'The Merchant of Venice' exemplify resistance by using intelligence and wit to navigate male-dominated spaces. In contrast, others may initially conform but ultimately find empowerment through their experiences. This duality reveals not only the constraints faced by women but also hints at emerging ideals regarding female autonomy, reflecting broader societal changes around gender dynamics during Shakespeare's time.

Related terms

Gender roles: Socially constructed roles that dictate how individuals should behave based on their gender, often perpetuated in patriarchal societies.

Feminism: A movement aimed at establishing and achieving equal rights for women, challenging the norms and structures of patriarchal societies.

Social hierarchy: The ranking of individuals or groups within a society based on factors such as wealth, power, and status, often influenced by patriarchal values.