Mariam's Traditional Gender Roles in Patriarchal Society in Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns

Abstract

This study examines the traditional gender role imposed on Mariam in Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns using Allan G. Johnson's patriarchy theory. This theory explains that male dominance, male identification, male centeredness, and obsession with control are four aspects that are highly valued in a patriarchal society. This study uses a qualitative method as the data were taken from descriptions and dialogues in the novel. The researcher then collected data based on the research objectives and analyzed using the theory explained earlier. The study result reveals that gender roles in the novel result in the oppression of Mariam. She is obliged to accept an arranged marriage with Rasheed, a widower who is thirty years older than her and experienced domestic violence by Rasheed. In addition, this study also found that Mariam had two responses regarding gender roles that oppressed her, namely acceptance and rebellion. The acceptance response is demonstrated by Mariam's actions in submitting to the arranged marriage and obeying her husband's restrictive rules. Meanwhile, the rebellious response is shown by Mariam's decision to run away from Rasheed's house and physical resistance to him. Finally, this study explains the adverse effects of patriarchy on Mariam. The research implication is to provide a new perspective on women in traditional society.