How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Scene.Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a big long monologue.
Quote #10
"I guess she’s the type that people call home girls."
"There’s no such type, and if there is, it’s a pity! That is unless the home is hers, with a husband." (4.88, 4.99, Tom and Amanda).
Amanda rates a woman’s worth by her marital status. Interestingly enough, she never addresses where this leaves her herself.
Quote #11
"I mean that as soon as Laura has got somebody to take care of her, married, a home of her own, independent-why, then you'll be free to go wherever you please, on land, on sea, whichever way the wind blows you! But until that time you've got to look out for your sister. I don't say me because I'm old and don't matter! I say for your sister because she's young and dependent." (4.93, Amanda).
Because of gender stereotyping, Amanda makes it Tom’s responsibility to look out for his older sister Laura.
Quote #12
"I put her in business college-a dismal failure! Frightened so it made her sick at the stomach. I took her over to the Young People's League at the church. Another fiasco. She spoke to nobody, nobody spoke to her. Now all she does is fool with those pieces of glass and play those worn-out records. What kind of life is that for a girl to lead?" (4.93, Amanda).
Amanda’s plans for Laura are based not on a desire for her daughter’s own satisfaction, but a fulfillment of the gender roles she sees in the world around her.