Table of ContentsGender Roles in the Early 20th CenturyPlot Summary of TriflesSymbolism in TriflesThe Marginalization of Women in TriflesConclusion References:Trifles by Susan Glaspell is a thought-provoking play that explores gender roles and the social expectations prevalent at the beginning of the 20th century. 20th century America through the use of symbolism. In this essay, we will examine the themes and symbolism of the play, while also discussing the limited roles and autonomy of women during this period. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Gender Roles in the Early 20th Century In the early 20th century, men and women had very different societal expectations. Men were the primary breadwinners and held most of the power in all aspects of life, while women were primarily relegated to domestic chores and secondary roles. This power imbalance was also evident in the legal and judicial system, which was primarily controlled by men. Plot Summary of BagatellesTrifles takes place on Mr. and Mrs. Wright's farm, where the latter has just been accused of murdering her husband. As the county attorney, sheriff, and a neighboring farmer investigate the crime, they dismiss the women's observations and ideas, focusing instead on what they perceive to be the most pressing questions of the investigation. Meanwhile, two women who accompanied them to the farm, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, notice several trifles that the men do not consider significant, which gradually leads them to recognize the motive for the murder. Symbolism in Bagatelles In Bagatelles, Glaspell uses symbolism to explore societal expectations and women's struggle for greater agency. The birdcage represents Mrs. Wright's confinement and lost freedom, while the quilt symbolizes the silent, creative resistance of women. Finally, the dead canary represents the muffled voice of Mrs. Wright, which the men never bother to recognize. to piece together the puzzle that eludes men. Ultimately, the women find justification and empowerment in their understanding of the murder and Mrs. Wright's motivations for committing it. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion In conclusion, Trifles by Susan Glaspell is a powerful play that highlights the struggles and resilience of American women in the early 20th century. Glaspell's use of symbolism and characterization illuminates the gender roles of this era, while also highlighting women's experience of marginalization and desire for autonomy. Trifles remains relevant today and continues to inspire critical thinking about gender roles and societal expectations. References: Bigsby, C. (2012). Modern American drama, 1945-2000. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Glaspell, S. (1916). “Trifles.” The Best American Short Plays 1915-1916. Ed. Willa Cather and George Jean Nathan. Boston: Small, Maynard and Company. Jarvis, B. (2008). “Susan Glaspell and the Anxiety of Expression.” American Literary Realism, 40(2), 109-122.