the yellow wallpaper by charlotte perkins gilman

One of the cornerstones of modern psychology is the free expression of emotions and thoughts in exploring things that are troubling the patient. For women especially, they were made to feel guilty for having an “invisible disease”, and their supposed inferiority to men was highlighted by their inability to cure their minds through willpower alone. Silas Weir Mitchell (referenced in the story), which actually serves to exacerbate the symptoms of mental illness even more. Her husband and other doctors at the time prescribed the “Resting Cure”, developed by Dr. She highlights this with the narrator, who is isolated from friends and other family, and she isn’t expected to acknowledge her feelings or condition at all. The Treatment of Women in Marriage and MedicineĬharlotte Perkins Stetson fiercely disagreed with the treatment of women, especially those suffering from mental illness, by the male-dominated medical field. The story highlights the afflictions of the mentally ill, particularly during this time period where medicine sought emotional and moral strength as the answer to physical ailments.

She is not being treated by modern methods of medicine, where talking and medications are prescribed instead, she spirals deeper into her own mind, and her mental illness worsens. As the narrator is isolated in order to better cure herself, she is left to her imagination as she stares daily at the wallpaper.

Mental illness is the prominent theme of the story, with the narrator being treated for what is most likely post-partum depression, or something similar. Themes to Look For and Discuss Mental Illness

In this activity, students will identify themes and symbols from the story, and support their choices with details from the text. Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard.

The yellow wallpaper by charlotte perkins gilman