In the world of The Age of Innocence, men and women have clearly defined roles. Men are the brains, the breadwinners, the movers and shakers. Women are raised to be perfect wives and mothers, with no intellectual life of their own. This division of roles grants men economic and social power, as well as sexual freedom— so long as they're not too obviously flouting the appearance of domestic bliss.
Sexual freedom, or even sexual desire, in women, however, is unthinkable. Women are caught up in a double bind: they are raised without the intellectual or financial advantages of men, which stunts their intellectual development, and yet it is precisely because of their perceived inferiority that women require the protection and guidance of a husband or a father. But many female characters reveal a formidable social power and emotional intuition that make you wonder who is really running the show.
Questions About Gender
- Consider the male characters in the novel. What was expected of male characters at the time? What sexual behavior was permissible for men, either within or outside of marriage?
- Consider the female characters in the novel. What was expected of female characters at the time? Who conforms to the feminine ideal of the time? Who does not? What sexual behavior was permissible for women, either within or outside of marriage?
- Do you think the female characters are entirely powerless? If they do have some power, what kind of power is it? Can you cite specific instances to support your view?
Chew on This
The Age of Innocence describes a time when women were expected to be chaste and pure before marriage, and after marriage, docile wives and devoted mothers.
The Age of Innocence describes a time when there was a double standard for men and women when it came to sexual behavior. Promiscuity was excusable for men, but for women sexuality equaled immorality.