Is Rita an example of a traditional "good" woman? In what ways does she fit (or not
fit into) a traditional gender role?
The traditional "good" woman has many stereotypical characteristics. She
doesn't talk to men first and doesn't ask them to dance but waits for them to approach
her. Rushing into sex never happens. In fact, more than casual kissing on the first date is
a rarity. If you want to get into the extreme stereotype, you can go the way of June
Cleaver. Staying at home all day, she cooks and cleans happily while the man works all
day and his only contribution to the family duties is tossing around a ball in the evening
with the kids. This typical "good" woman has been portrayed throughout our history as
the ideal woman. She is the perfect wife and mother.
I believe that Rita is a traditional "good" woman.
Phil Mitchell
Phil Mitchell, spoofed in 2DTV.
Steve McFaddenShe fits into the traditional role
in many ways but she also strays from some of our typical stereotypes.
As the movie begins, we meet Rita. She is a nice, accommodating woman who is
happy and eager to please others. In that aspect she is staying in the traditional gender
role of our stereotype woman. She goes to great lengths to ensure everyone's needs are
met without showing us any concern for her own. Rita is always smiling and chipper
towards everyone, no matter how unhappy they might be.
In the other aspect, as the movie begins, we can tell that she is as eager to please
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as she is strong and independent. She retains her independence while still maintaining
the respect of the people working under her. They only obvious exception is Phil, who is
technically one of those under her, believes he is not...