This essay is a compare and contrast essay. It deals with Flannery O'conners "Good Country People" and Steinbecks "The Chrysanthemums".

Throughout history, man has generally reigned over the less powerful woman. During the depression era, the typical working father and house wife existed throughout the United States, mainly in rural parts of the states. In both "The Chrysanthemums" and "Good Country People", the main characters (Elisa and Joy) are looked down upon by man. Elisa and Joy have tried to flex their power by crossing into the realm of man, but have been discriminated based …

…were both in search for affection, and went to great lengths to pursue their ambition. This affection that they sought for was not granted due to the fact that they were discriminated based upon their sexuality. Their endeavor to become equivalent to man consequently resulted in punishment. Their punishment was rather unique, a form of punishment through castration, which consisted of taking away their most prized possession that portrayed a beloved part of their life.