Subversion of Tradition in Laura Esquivel's Like Water for Chocolate

Abstract

This thesis studies Laura Esquivel’s novel, Like Water for Chocolate from the perspective of feminism. It mainly focuses on female characters and points to a more radical concern of feminism in this novel. The female characters are presented boldly, and strongly, who question the traditionally accepted feminine roles as the characters reject to abide by these roles. The major character, Tita as a youngest daughter, is required to remain unmarried according to the Mexican tradition to take care of her oppressive mother, Mama Elena. Tita rebels against her mother who upholds the traditional patriarchal Mexican values. She defies her mother's dictates by showing her love to Pedro even after the Pedro's marriage with Rosaura, which is not accepted by the society. Even at home, she takes kitchen as a source of feminine power as she ruins the wedding party of Pedro and Rosaura. Similarly, Gretrudis is the strong female character who leaves home, works in a brothel and joins revolutionary army. So, both sisters' acts reflect the subversion of patriarchal norms in Mexican society.