According to Merriam-Webster, a double standard refers to the application of different and more stringent principles to one group or situation in comparison to another. This is especially evident in a moral code that imposes stricter standards on women's sexual conduct than on men's. It is ironic that the definition itself employs sexual behavior as an example. In Kate Chopin's story The Storm, I perceive her writing as advocating for women's rights while also highlighting instances of double standards.
In today's society, the issue of double standards in sexual conduct is a prominent topic, particularly regarding men and women. Individuals are judged differently based on their number of sexual partners and relationships. In a class discussion about The Storm, I noticed that male and female students had different opinions on whether Calixta should feel guilty for her intimate encounter with Al
...cee during the storm, given that her husband and son were not present.
In class, the acceptability of reversing things was questioned, and most men disagreed. This exemplifies a clear double standard, with many men believing it is more acceptable for them to misbehave than women. Chopin utilized this in her story to underscore her stance on the women's rights movement. She firmly supported women's rights and during that time period, unequal standards concerning gender were widespread.
The topic of adultery has a lengthy past, tracing back to occurrences like the Salem witch trials. Over time, women have frequently faced more severe judgment for committing adultery or participating in any sexually inappropriate actions. In the narrative, Calixta's unfaithfulness with Alcee is depicted without displaying any indication of regret or remorse. This absenc
of remorse would undeniably have generated controversy during the women's rights movement and serves as an ideal illustration of a double standard. This double standard was also evident in our class discussion when we discovered that Alcee had a wife at home.
The story's revelations had a significant effect on everyone's viewpoints. It was revealed that during Alcee's absence, his wife Clarisse engaged in sexual promiscuity. This disclosure caused many men in the class to become more accepting of Calixta and Alcee's actions, solely because Alcee himself was also being unfaithful. This illustrates that when men realized a man was being cheated on, it became permissible as long as both the man and woman were equally involved.
In my perspective, Calixta's actions do not render her culpable in any manner. She continued with her regular life contentedly, as though nothing had transpired. I discovered the storm to be rather enjoyable. It was captivating to witness the prejudiced perspectives of both males and females in class. If the circumstances were reversed, I believe men would consider it acceptable whereas women would be dissatisfied with it. I can relate to Kate Chopin's literature and writing because I dissent against the dual standards we encounter in contemporary society.
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