Elisa shares characteristics of beauty, strength, and vitality with the chrysanthemums in the story. She takes great pride in caring for her flowers, much like how she cares for her own sense of self-worth and identity. The chrysanthemums symbolize Elisa's repressed desires for fulfillment and recognition, mirroring her own hidden talents and potential.
Interactions with other characters.
In "The Chrysanthemums," the reader learns about Henry's character through his interactions with Elisa and the way he dismisses her passion for gardening. Henry's lack of interest in Elisa's chrysanthemums and his focus on practical matters reveal his insensitivity and lack of understanding towards her emotional needs. His failure to understand Elisa's desires highlights his limited perception of her inner world.
Elisa's character in "The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck is closely linked to the chrysanthemums in terms of both being stifled and unfulfilled. Just as the chrysanthemums are confined to a small garden and lack a purpose beyond decoration, Elisa feels limited in her life and unappreciated for her potential. Both Elisa and the chrysanthemums represent unfulfilled potential and a longing for freedom and fulfillment.
Steinbeck describes Elisa as a capable gardener who takes pride in her work, showing her attention to detail and nurturing nature. Through her interaction with the flowers and the way she carefully tends to her garden, Steinbeck establishes Elisa as a strong and nurturing character.
In the story “The Chrysanthemums” by John Steinbeck, the chrysanthemums symbolize Elisa’s confidence and her feminist side.
A possible thesis statement for "The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck could be: In "The Chrysanthemums," Steinbeck explores the theme of female identity and empowerment through the character of Elisa Allen, who seeks validation and fulfillment in a male-dominated society by connecting with her passion for gardening. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, Steinbeck showcases Elisa's struggle for self-expression and recognition in a constrained world.
Action
Steinbeck primarily uses the conversation and interaction between Elisa and the visitor, along with their contrasting perspectives and desires, to create the dynamic between them. Through their dialogue and actions, Steinbeck reveals their differences in social status, aspirations, and desires, highlighting the underlying tension and power dynamics between the two characters.
John Steinbeck opens "The Chrysanthemums" by describing the setting, focusing on the landscape and the Salinas Valley. He also introduces the main character, Elisa, as she tends to her garden with a sense of nurturing and care. The author establishes a sense of isolation and longing in Elisa through her interactions with her husband.
The theme of "The Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck is confinement and oppression of women in a patriarchal society. The story explores Elisa Allen's frustration and desire for independence within the limitations imposed by her gender and societal expectations. Steinbeck uses the symbol of the chrysanthemums to represent Elisa's inner strength and longing for personal fulfillment.
Elisa grows all of their fruits and vegetables while Henry raises their meat and poultry.
Elisa thinks the speck in the road is a person, based on its movements and characteristics.