Gender Roles and Limitations

The novel explores how women are confined to domestic roles, expected to be pleasing and self-sacrificing, while men like Victor are indulged and given opportunities, leading to resentment and unfulfilled lives for the women.

Maggie's tomboyishness is contrasted with May's beauty and femininity; Mamma's role as wife and mother.

Margaret's traditional femininity is contrasted with the 'bloomer' movement, and her domesticity is both valued and limiting.

The girls are expected to give pincushions and behave prettily, while Papa's role as provider and horseman is central; Mamma's fainting and embarrassment reflect prescribed femininity.

Mamma's lack of understanding of finances and her reliance on male relatives for such matters.