Resistance against the Subordinate Position of Women in Steinbeck‘s East of Eden

Abstract

The novel East of Eden is a depiction of the resistance of a woman from her subordinate position in the patriarchal society. Applying the women subaltern theory of Gyatri C. Spivak this research assesses the rebellion of the entire domination of the femininity in society. This thesis presents how the females are subordinated in patriarchy. The central story revolves around a woman who kills her parents and tries to abort her not-born children to be free from all kinds of feminine trap given by the male dominated society in the name of household task and responsibilities of a woman. The strong resistance has shown in her every activity shown for the male. She becomes like a woman who is a threat for patriarchy. Cathy is an example of women‘s resistance She is a woman who exercises her sexuality in brothel houses. The society and social norms and tradition make the women meek by imposing all kinds of family task such as giving birth and taking care of children, satisfying her husband and being loyal to him. But, the major character Cathy rejects all kinds of stereotypical roles. She resists the patriarchy‘s imposition that subordinated her.