Feminism In The Graduate

"The Graduate," promotes a patriarchal society by punishing and subsequently rewarding women based on their conformity to gender roles.

Synopsis

Ben Braddock

Mrs. Robinson

Elaine robinson

the madonna vs. the whore

• Madonna; woman who meets patriarchal standards of sexual freedom
• Whore; woman who challenges patriarchal standards of sexual freedom
• In patriarchal society, image is based on conformity to gender roles
• The Madonna is reputed for her conformity
• The Whore is punished for her non-confomity

Mrs robinson; "the whore"

• Mrs. Robinson pursues sexual relations
• She exhibits dominant, "male" characteristics in her relationship with Ben
• Openly sexual and straight-forward about it
• Pregnant before marriage
• Is unfaithful to her husband

Elaine Robinson: "The madonna"

• Portrayed as weak and submissive
• Seemingly sexually inept, no visible ques for sexual desire
• Life oriented around male authority
• Always shown with a man near her, never independent

Ben: "The winner"

• Ben does not follow traditional gender roles
• Submissive in his relationship with Mrs. Robinson
• Questions his sexual abilities  
• Can't "keep a woman" 
• Is unsure about life, has no ambition

PATRIARCHY.